Could breaking out after breast augmentation cause an infection?

Question

I had my BA surgery 3 weeks ago and I started breaking out since the first week. I didn’t touch the pimples but today I started to develop more and started popping them. I’m wondering if this could cause an infection? I cleaned the pimples with alcohol.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

cio90. I recommend that you check in with your plastic surgeon to evaluate the pimples, especially if they are anywhere near the incision sites. Wash the areas daily with soap and water as well. Best of luck.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Your BA incisions should be pretty well sealed by now (3 weeks post-op), so the concern would be popping pimples and getting any bacteria-laden contents on your fingers, and from there to your incisions. Cleaning with alcohol before popping does nothing to reduce the bacteria in the contaminated sebum (or frank pus), so it would be more important to cleanse your skin and your fingers AFTER you pop the pimples, AND to keep your hands away from those incisions!However, the simple and correct answer is: "Yes." Or a capsular contracture.But the likelihood is probably low.I do hate that word probably.Best wishes, Dr. Tholen

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Unlikely that this fairly common occurrence will cause problems. It is important, though, to keep your surgeon in the loop for certainty.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cio90,it is unlikely that this will cause infection. However, if you are concerned, I suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Paul M. Parker, MD, FACS · Answer

Your incisions should be healed at 3 weeks post surgery and infection would be unlikely at that point. Might make sense to see your dermatologist to get the acne under control, however. Keep you surgeon informed.

Could breaking out after breast augmentation cause an infection?

Answers (9)

Answer: Infection

Answer: Infection

Answer: Breakouts after BA

Answer: Breakouts after BA

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Could breaking out after breast augmentation cause an infection?

Answers (9)

Answer: Infection

Answer: Infection

Answer: Breakouts after BA

Answer: Breakouts after BA

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.