Infection - Breast Augmentation Complication

With any surgery, an infection can occur.  Generally, infections usually make themselves known within a few days to a few weeks following surgery, however, it is possible for them to occur at any time after surgery.  Typically, symptoms include fever, swelling, tenderness, and inflammation (redness).  Thankfully, most infections can be treated with antibiotics. However, if the infection does not respond to the antibiotics, the breast implant(s) may have to be removed, until the infection has completely cleared.  The time frame on re-implantation can range from a few weeks to several months, depending upon the severity of the infection.  

If you develop a fever of 101 or higher, consult with your surgeon immediately.  There have been cases of infection in which there was NO fever.  If you have one or more of the symptoms listed above, with or without fever, please get in touch with your physician.  

In very rare cases, severe infections can result in Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

Virtually all plastic surgeons prescribe antibiotics, which are taken for several days after the surgery.  Antibiotics are also usually given via IV drip, during your surgery. 

Infections, especially serious infections, are not very common after breast augmentation surgery.

 

• Do not soak in the bathtub or hot tub until your incisions are COMPLETELY closed.  Waiting two weeks is a good time frame. 

• Do not go swimming.  You probably won't want to anyway, especially if you have your breast implants placed under the muscle.  Two weeks is another good time frame to avoid swimming.

• Try not to touch your incision.  Bacteria from your hands could get in the incision, and possibly cause an infection.  If your surgeon asks you to apply any type of ointment to your incision, use a Q-Tip to do so.  This includes scar treatments such as Mederma, etc.  These should not be used until the incision is completely closed.

• Many women complain of their breasts itching after surgery.  This is usually due to the skin stretching.  Using a lotion or moisturizer often helps relieve the itchiness.  However, use caution when applying lotion around the incisions.  You don't want to get lotion in an open incision.

• If you got the transax (armpit) incision, avoid using deodorant on your incision until it has completely closed.  You may want to keep the tape on the incision, even after the stitches have been removed.  By doing this, you can still apply deodorant, without worrying that it will get inside the incision.

 

Always check with your plastic surgeon and follow his/her advice.  The tips above should not be used as medical advice.  They are generalizations and should be used as a point of reference only.

 

 

 

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