Minimize the Risk of Infection after Plastic Surgery

Infection can be a serious concern with any kind of surgery. However, with today’s advanced plastic surgical techniques and medications, there is far less of a risk than there once was. In order to completely minimize this risk, there are necessary precautions that all patients should take. Plastic surgery has an especially low risk of infection, as all candidates must be healthy in order to receive a breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, or other surgery.

Antibiotics

Though the incisions are small, procedures like liposuction and breast implantation can actually cause internal trauma, which may leave the body open to infection in these areas. While this is no reason to not get these surgeries, it is reason to carefully take the antibiotics the plastic surgeon prescribes after the surgery. Many people will stop taking their antibiotics once they stop taking their pain medications, but it is vitally important to take them until they are gone, just as the doctor has prescribed. Taking only half of the prescription could actually allow an infection to occur.

Caring for the Incision

In general, doctors recommend that patients keep the incision site covered during the day, and if possible, let it breathe at night. It is important to regularly, but gently clean the incision site, so it is not exposed to dirt or other infectious material. Whether the doctor uses stiches or tape to close the area, he or she will probably provide a care sheet to ensure you know how to properly care for the incision site. Most importantly, do not rub at the incision, put any kind of cream or lotion on it, or get it wet. In order to shower, a plastic film can cover the incision and dressing to ensure that it does not become saturated with water, as this makes it a breeding ground for bacteria.

To properly clean the site, use gentle soap and clean water, being sure to remove any dried blood or other crust that forms at the site. Never use any kind of caustic agent like hydrogen peroxide to clean to area, as this can actually make it harder for the incision to heal. After gently cleaning the area, pat it with a clean towel until it is completely dry, and then apply clean dressing. All of this washing and new dressing will minimize the possible that any bacteria enter the area to cause an infection.

Normal sensations after plastic surgery are itchiness (try not to scratch), tingling, and tenderness. Bruises and some oozing are actually normal. What is not normal is when a bad smell is coming from the incision, it feels warm, looks especially red, is increasingly painful, is oozing continuously yellow or green, or continues to bleed through dressing. If any of these signs appear, it is vital that a doctor is consulted.

Though there is always a risk of infection, with the right care and attention, this risk can be effectively minimized. The vast majority of people have no problem whatsoever with their plastic surgery procedures.

Contact Jefferson Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation.