Cheek Implant and Buccal Fat Removal - Infection

asked 1 year ago by Tyson80
Latest answer by Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS
Question viewed 249 times
Tags: implant, infection

Is a foul drainage inside the mouth an inevitable indication for an infection? I was struggeling with a post op swelling after the surgery. Now I am 3 weeks post op and the swelling is still gradually subsiding. I have no pain, redness or fever. Today for the first time I am experiencing a foul taste in my mouth whenever I try to smile. Now I am taking cephalexin (antibiotics). My surgeon is out for a week and the nurse advised me to take the mentioned drug. What do you think? Thank you!!!!

5 answers to Cheek Implant and Buccal Fat Removal - Infection

Infection after cheek implant

How do you know that keflex is the right antibiotic to treat your infection without a culture? You don't. Ask the surgeon's office who is covering for him and see that person. They may take a culture and place you on the proper antibiotic, and see if there is a need to explore the implant, etc.

Brent Moelleken, MD
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

www.drbrent.com

Infection following cheek implants

Yes, it sounds like an infection. You should continue being followed by the plastic and cosmetic surgeon that did your Cheek Implants as it's possible the infection will resolve with antibiotics and the Cheek Implants won't need to be removed. However, should your face begin to hurt with increasing swelling be sure to contact your doctor immediately. If the infection does not resolve, in a reasonable amount of time, the implant should be removed and can be replaced... more

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD
Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

drfrancispalmer.com

Cheek Implant Infection Drainage

That is very suggestive of a draining cheek infection. Because the infection is draining that would explain why the cheek swelling is going done as the abscess has become decompressed. The fact that it is draining is good but unfortunately does not mean you have salvaged the cheek implant. That issue remains to be seen with more time and antibiotics. You need to follow-up with your plastic surgeon when he is back in town next week.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD
Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon

www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com

Infected cheek implants

It does sound from your description like you may have an infected cheek implant. The lack of fever or redness speaks against that though and it may be a draining hematoma you are tasting. The strong likelihood is infection though and you should see your surgeon asap.

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS
Seattle Plastic Surgeon

Infection after Buccal Fat Reduction and Cheek implant

Foul taste inside the mouth could be a sign of infection after buccal fat reduction or cheek implant. Pain, fever, redness, and swelling are other signs of possible infection. Infections after cheek surgery is uncommon, and usually resolve with a short-course of antibiotics. Removing silicone cheek implants might also be required with facial infection. However, only after a comprehensive evaluation can a surgeon help determine appropriate options for you. Speak with your surgeon. Dr.... more

Houtan Chaboki, MD
Washington DC Facial Plastic Surgeon

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