Is it common for a doctor not to prescribe antibiotics after a breast reduction surgery?

Question

I was kind of shocked when i didn't receive any after reading all the other reviews.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there and thanks for your question! I typically prescribe antibiotics starting the day before surgery and have them continue the full course after the surgery. Some surgeons just give antibiotics through the IV on the day of surgery.  Each plastic surgeon has his/her own protocol but regardless you should be getting some kind of coverage. Best of luck!

Jennifer Greer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. There have been many, many studies looking at how to prevent infections after surgery. A dose of antibiotics through your IV just before surgery decreases your risk of infection. But taking antibiotics after surgery does not decrease your risk of infection, and carries a risk of side effects and complications. Your doctor is following the standard of care by not giving antibiotics (assuming there are no other factors that you didn’t bring up in your question).

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

There are many different opinions regarding antibiotics. Some surgeons give none, some one dose at the time of the anaesthetic and some give oral antibiotics to take home. I would not be concerned. As long as everything is progressing well you do not need prophylactic antibiotics.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

The doctor did the right thing by not giving antibiotics. The only antibiotic is the one given at the start of surgery and they are not needed after surgery.

Is it common for a doctor not to prescribe antibiotics after a breast reduction surgery?

Answers (4)

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