What causes the blister like bubble to come up on the edges of steri strips? Have 3 now, they have all popped.

Question

Will these blisters leave scars?

Robert P. Schmid, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! You very well may be having a common allergic reaction to an adhesive called Mastisol that is often used with steri strips. Contact your plastic surgeon, you may need to have the strips removed. Best of luck to you!

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

The most common reason for a blister with steristrips is that tension causes a shearing force on the skin. Usually this due to swelling after surgery making the steristrips too tight. An alternative explanation which I think is less common is an allergic reaction to the adhesive.The blisters can cause the area to appear paler for a few months but long term it is not usually a problem.Best wishes

Ken Stewart, MD, FRCS Plast · Answer

Minor reactions can occur with all adhesive dressings. The blister maybe allergic but they could also be friction related. In any case when the strips are removed the injury tends to be superficial only. They may leave a red mark for a few weeks but this tends to fade and tends not to be noticeable in the long term

Dan Mills, MD · Answer

Interesting that you should ask! An unfortunate side effect of placing steristrips on too tightly is that when tissues swell after surgery, the tapes don't allow the skin to move to its new position. The shear stress from this leads to the top layer of skin pulling away and inflammatory fluid to collect which results in blisters. Usually these will pop and drain and heal without any issues. It is a hassle and an annoyance though so if you find these appearing, go see your surgeon to have them gently removed and redressed! I hope this helps. -Dr. Mills

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question! What happens after surgery is that the steri-strips are on the skin, then the tissue swells. This swelling creates tension on the skin which causes the blistering. Even though it seems worrisome, the blisters will not leave any scars. It's more of an inconvenience than anything. Best of luck and congratulations on your surgery!~Dr. Sieber

Marc J. Salzman, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Blisters under any type of adhesive dressing are not uncommon. It probably results from some traction and shear forces at the very superficial portion of the skin. This is very similar to a superficial sunburn and will heal uneventfully. Nothing to worry about.

What causes the blister like bubble to come up on the edges of steri strips? Have 3 now, they have all popped.

Answers (6)

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