Hi Doreen

Thanks for posting your query

The itchy red rectangular rash could have been a skin lesion and not related to surgery

I would suggest you see a good dermatologist and in the mean time take a dose of Tab Cetrizine daily to control itching

What was the type of surgery performed Open or Laparoscopic ?
Where exactly is the swelling occuring in upper abdomen ?

There are probabilities you have post cholecystecomy syndrome ?
Reassure yourself
Avoid fatty meals
Take small frequent meals

And for medications consult your health care provider

Hope this helps
Am available for any followup queries
If there are no further doubts, do accept this reply and rate it

Get Well Soon

Hi, If you do not have previous history of skin allergy, and this rash is over operation site (stich site) then this rash my be due allergy to dressing paster. In this case avoid using same plaster and "transpore" a less allergic dressing plaster can be applied over site of operation.
During the process of healing of skin wound, some sort of stressing or heaviness in common and it subsides by its one over a time. Although routine work can be resumed after 1 week following laparoscopic gall-bladder surgery, avoid strenuous work like proloned sitting, lifting heavy weight and running. It better to start all these activity slowly and gradually increase according to tolerance. Have a good health.