What is the best antiseptic spray for a tummy tuck incision?

Question

What's the best antiseptic spray for a Tummy Tuck incision to eliminate any type of infection? Or is it not necessary. Thanks in advance!

Steven Sigalove, MD FACS · Answer

When you have your surgery, you will be prepped and draped in a sterile fashion, typically with specific skin preps that are designed to kill bacteria. Additionally, you will be given IV antibiotics prior to your surgery and many surgeons put you on oral antibiotics after your surgery. You do not need to purchase any other postoperative spray as this will not change your chances of getting an infection. Good luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Some PS allow you to put Bacitracin, Neosporin or another antibiotic ointment on the incision. However, some surgeons do not want you to touch the incision any more than is absolutely necessary. 
I like the incision to be kept dry at all times, no ointments of any kind; every surgeon has different post op care instructions so continue to follow up with your PS to discuss your concern.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  In most cases an antiseptic spray is not required or needed to minimize the chance of an infection.  Hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Queenlove83,
every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.    Your oral antibiotics after surgery, in addition to IV antibiotics during surgery should be all you need.   Showering daily when approved by your PS, will keep the area clean.  I don't advise any topical antiseptics on surgery scars.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically an antiseptic spray is not necessary to care for your tummy tuck incision.  Protocols will vary by surgeon, and your surgeon will give you specific post op instructions on how to care for your incisions as well as "red flags" that will alert you to potential issues.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

in reality topical antibiotics don't do anything. Bacteria that causes wound infections is bacterial that's already inside the tissues.topical antibiotics can cause allergic reactions and impede healing.

I suggest asking your plastic surgeon if you have a procedure scheduled.

most plastic surgeons do not have patients applytopical antibiotics after surgery.

soap and water is probably sufficient.

because tummy tucks include the placement of a drain surgical infections are very rare with this procedure.

best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

What is the best antiseptic spray for a tummy tuck incision?

Answers (7)

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