Understanding and Treating Post-Surgical Dermatitis After Breast Reconstruction

Dermatitis of the breast is a condition of skin irritation or inflammation, commonly known as a skin rash. It is characterized by redness and may be associated with itching or blistering.

Dermatitis can occur after any surgery and should be distinguished from more serious conditions like infection.

The most common cause of dermatitis following mastectomy and reconstruction is a reaction to the dressing used to cover the surgical wound. Patients may have an unknown sensitivity to dressing types like surgical tape and tegaderm.

Skin irritation with these dressings may also result from tension on the skin due to post-operative swelling. Sterile surgical glues like Derma bond can also contribute to skin irritation.

Simple dermatitis or skin irritation can often be treated by removing the irritating dressing. In some cases, topical steroids may be indicated.

Prompt attention to redness around the surgical incision site is essential to differentiate dermatitis from infection and ensure appropriate treatment.

Patients should alert their surgeon if they develop dermatitis after surgery to ensure precautions are taken before any further procedures.

While these conditions are generally benign and treatable with little long-term consequence, early recognition and management are key to optimal recovery.

In addition to dermatitis, patients should also be vigilant for reconstruction failure symptoms such as implant displacement, asymmetry, or changes in breast shape or size in cases of implant reconstruction. These symptoms may indicate underlying issues requiring revision surgery or intervention.

Similarly, in natural tissue reconstruction, patients should watch for signs like tissue necrosis, asymmetry, or loss of breast volume, which could signal complications requiring medical attention.

Types of infections related to implant reconstruction failure can range from superficial skin infections like cellulitis to more severe infections like implant-associated infections or capsular contracture. In natural tissue reconstruction, infections such as abscesses or wound infections may occur and require prompt medical treatment.

It’s essential for patients to monitor their recovery closely and report any unusual symptoms or changes to their healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.