Should I be concerned about getting sick 2 weeks post op?

Question

So I just got home a few days ago from where I had my mommy makeover. I'm just over the 2 week mark and feeling sick. I have a fever(101) that comes and goeS, body aches and chills, and a sore throat. Is this just a common cold caused from traveling or should I be concerned? I know I should consult with PS but I'm not sure how to reach her over the holiday weekend.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and congratulations on your procedures.  Though it is the season for the common viral cold, it would be important to rule out the possibility of a wound infection.  See your local surgeon for an in-person evaluation.  Best wishes.

Samuel Beran, MD · Answer

It could be a coincidence, but an infection could be a big problem.  Call your surgeon now.  There is always someone on call for phone calls.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes it is best to reach out to your surgeon regarding your illness.  If you cannot reach your surgeon you can contact your PCP for an evaluation and prescription antibiotics if indicated and then inform your surgeon when able.  Of added concern would be a developing cough as you recently ad a tummy tuck.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

It does not sound related to your procedure although upper respiratory tract infections following anaesthetic can occur. This may be viral in nature. I would let your PS know - the query will be whether to start you on antibiotics or not.

Daniel Krochmal, MD, FACS · Answer

You should always be able to contact your surgeon's office 24/7.  If your surgeon isn't able to be reached, then there should be a system in place at their office for you to talk with one of their partners who is covering their patients if they are unreachable.  While this may just be a "common cold" you should be evaluated for potential infection after the surgery.You mentioned that you traveled.  If your surgeon is out of the country, this makes it much more difficult to find care when you get back home.  You may need to call around to several plastic surgeons and see who will evaluate you.Best,Dr. Dan KrochmalMAE Plastic SurgeryNorthbrook, IL

Anh Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to be seen by a PS to rule out surgical infection especially because you have implants in.  There is always a way to reach your PS by email or office number but if you went out of the US for surgery then that may be more difficult.

Nicholas Tarola, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Although it is possible to have an illness unrelated to your surgery, it is best to make sure you are not experiencing a complication.  If you are not able to be seen by your surgeon, I recommend you see a local surgeon/physician for an examination to be sure.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Contact your surgeon.  You may have a cold, but it is better to be safe than sorry.  Happy Holidays!

Should I be concerned about getting sick 2 weeks post op?

Answers (8)