Why aren't broad spectrum antibiotics prescribed after facelifts?

The use of antibiotics varies from surgeon to surgeon.  Antibiotics are generally given in the operating room, and some surgeons prescribe them orally after too.  The use of topical antibiotic ointment is also recommended by some physicians on the incisions as well.  It is a physician preference.

Hello and thank you for your question. I do agree with the previous comments made by other physicians in regards to the over-use of antibiotics in general and the unlikelihood of infection when the procedure is performed in a sterile environment. That being said, I do prescribe all facelift patients a 5-day course of Keflex to prevent any risk of infection, though it is small.

I do offer perioperative antibiotic and a brief course after surgery. However, I agree with the other surgeons' comments that infections are quite rare. When it comes to incision complications these are typically related to too much tension being placed on the skin and the incisions popping open followed by granulation, redness and drainage. This is not an infection per se but wound dehiscence. This should not happen after a properly planned and performed facelift. Best.