You're looking fantastic after your tummy tuck, but there's just one problem - After it's all said and done, an itchy scratchy rash has popped up! Now, you've got a big red rash on your beautiful flat stomach, and you've got to figure out how to get rid of it.

This is one of the possible side effects of getting a tummy tuck. Plastic surgeons always tell you that there is a SLIM chance that this will happen... and that makes you feel even worse when it does! Tummy tuck rashes are pretty common, and they're not that big a deal at all. You just have to take care of it, and then you'll be all set.

What's Causing This Darn Itchy Redness, Anyway?

This is the first thing we need to figure out. There could be a couple of different causes for your tummy tuck rash, and the key to curing it is to find out what's causing it in the first place.

...It Could Be The Sutures

You might be allergic to the sutures, tape or gauze. If you're allergic to the sutures, this is the worst case scenario. This might involve a little work on the plastic surgeons part, and they may have to sow you up again.

Hopefully this won't be the case, but the only way you'll know is if you have your doctor take a look.

You could also be allergic to the tape or gauze. This is a much better situation. If this is the case, your doctor will switch it out for another type. If it's the tape or gauze that's getting you burning red, make sure you remember what material it is for future operations. Always tell the doctor when they ask if you have any allergies.

...It Could Be A Heat Rash

This is by far the most common tummy tuck rash problem. You'll see small, prickly red dots and it will be very itchy. There might also be a burning sensation. It's caused by simply being too hot.

If this is the case, you can deal with it yourself. Keep it cool and don't stretch or irritate the area. Wash the area thoroughly but gently with soap and cleaners. When you're toweling off, dab at the area gently instead of scraping it.

After washing, it's a good idea to apply something to it, like cortisone cream, Benadryl or baby powder. If it doesn't help relieve the pain, switch to something else. The rash should start to fade in just a day or two, but it may take several days before it's gone. If it doesn't start to fade in a few days, talk to the doctor. It may be caused by something else.

The itchiness and burning will go away! Hopefully, you can handle it yourself, but always feel free to contact the plastic surgeon if it troubles you excessively. Get rid of that rash and you can finally enjoy your slim and trim new belly!