Is a prescribed course of Keflex standard after Rhinoplasty?

Question

Is a prescribed course of antibiotics standard after rhinoplasty? I have my procedure scheduled for later this month, and was just informed of the requirement to take Keflex for 7 days after the surgery. I generally react poorly to antibiotics with effects lingering for weeks to months after (weight gain, bloating, sluggish metabolism, fatigue, etc). Wondering if there is an alternative approach. Thank you!

Edwin F. Williams, III, MD · Answer

Perioperative antibiotics are typically administered prior to surgery, however routine postoperative antibiotics are not typically indicated unless there is a specific concern.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

The standard use of antibiotics in surgery is one intravenous dose during surgery. You should speak to your surgeon, explain the issues you have with antibiotics and ask if they are needed in your case.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Excellent data has been published years ago showing that only perioperative antibiotics are necessary, not 7 days. Unfortunately, defensive medicine prevails in many surgeon's practices, leading to unnecessary antibiotic consumption.

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty requires exceptional skill on behalf of the surgeon and great communication with the patient about realistic goals and expectations.

Common cosmetic concerns include a dorsal hump, wide nose, sunken nose, irregularities, and asymmetries. Functional concerns include difficulty breathing through the nose, which can and should be addressed at the same time as your rhinoplasty.

In your situation, antibiotics are standard for a rhinoplasty. The alternative is to not take antibiotics.

Make sure to seek out the care of a board certified surgeon with extensive experience in rhinoplasty. Find someone you connect with, who will listen to your concerns and provide you with a framework for what is possible.

Gary Linkov, MD

Rhinoplasty Specialist

Manhattan

Is a prescribed course of Keflex standard after Rhinoplasty?

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