Is Bactrim DS a good antibiotic for breast augmentation infection? (Photos)

Question

Is this a fungal infection? When will I see a change? 3 weeks post op from a breast lift and augmentation. Saturday I was told to take the remaining tape off, and when I did it became red and a little raw and now a week later it is still red, a little warm, and peeling. I went to my plastic surgeon. And he said that he doesn't know what causes this but that he has seen this before and it looks like a fungal infection. and told to start applying LOTRIMIN ULTRA and prescribed BACTRIM DS. Has anyone else experienced this with their patients?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Trustworthy2068,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. Generally speaking, Bactrim can be used for treatment of infection, but it won't help with fungal infection. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Your photos appear to demonstrate a fairly serious cellulitis of the breast. This is of much greater concern in the presence of implants. A course of oral antibiotics (Bactrim is a reasonable choice) is the first line intervention. Should this fail, you may need admission for IV antibiotics and potentially explantation.With regards to your specific question, based on your photos, I would guess this to be bacterial in origin. Fungus is a possibility but less common (when you hear hoof beats think horses not zebras). Either way, the concern remains the same. Involvement of the implant often culminates in removal.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. I fear that this is not going to end well. It looks as though you have a potentially serious infection. If there are implants in place, it is going to be very hard if not impossible to clear this infection. I have never seen an infection like this caused by a fungal issue and if it were, topical anti-fungal creams are not going to treat it effectively. I would consider a second opinion or consider being seen by your primary doctor or local ER if needed for treatment.Best of luck!Dallas R. Buchanan, MD, FACSOwner & Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonVIVIFY plastic surgery

Is Bactrim DS a good antibiotic for breast augmentation infection? (Photos)

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Is Bactrim DS a good antibiotic for breast augmentation infection? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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