Allergic reaction to steri strips

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Hi all. I had bunion surgery on February 20th (2-1/2 weeks ago). I developed skin rashes and blisters around the area where the steri strips were and also scattered close to the area of incicion. Sutures were removed 3 days ago and incision site is not infected. I was prescribed a topical corticosteroid cream to apply on the rashes and benadryl for the itch.

Has anyone else experienced this and how long did it take for the rashes and blisters to heal?

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2 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Cynthia, This sounds very much like an allergic reaction and I'm sure the rash and blisters will clear up very soon. I had itching and blotches around the operation site, although no blisters. I bathed my feet every night in a bowl of warm water and afterwards applied moisturising cream (E45) to the whole of my foot. Along the incision-line it was particularly sensitive to the touch so I would gently brush along the area of the scar with a soft baby's brush to desensitise the area. This did the trick and after a few weeks all the tenderness and sensitivity had gone. Occasionally I got a sharp pain too where I had 2 screws (or pins) inserted but this disappeared eventually too. It's early days for you yet so try to relax with your feet up as much as you can.The more you rest your foot the better your final result will be.

    Good luck with your recovery, take it easy and you'll do well. I had my left foot done in 2015 and then my right foot in April of 2016 and I am thrilled with the results. Its great to be able to stride out with my dog everyday and not feel any discomfort or pain. My feet not only look 'pretty' but I can now wear nice shoes and fashionable boots once again. By the way I'm no 'Spring chicken' but an active 72 year old. Best wishes, LadyPink 

    • Posted

      Thank you for your input, LadyPink! My doctor just asked me to apply the corticosteroid topical cream for two weeks. It's been a week, so one more week to go. Some of the rashes are staring to clear up. The blisters have dried up, but they don't look pretty. They look like burnt skin. I'm sure once the dead skin peels off, it will look better (I'm just impatient). I can't apply anything else like moisturizing cream until after next week. This is my second bunion surgery -- left foot this time. I had my right foot done last June and was very happy with the result. 

      I'm turning 57 next week, and I just can't wait until I can shop for strappy sandals for summer. Finally, I will have pretty feet...and also be able to enjoy my hobbies (hiking, dancing) with no more pain.

      Thank you for your best wishes! <3

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