Redness and swelling after implant exchange - What should I do?

Question

I had my implants exchanged after 12 years, on 4/2. Incisions are all healed. In the last few days I have swelling and redness on the top inner portion of one breast. It feels weird, kind of numb and desensitized. I was started in another round of antibiotics. But still no change after 3 days.

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

Redness and swelling that occurs more than one week after implant surgery should be considered infection until proven otherwise. Antibiotics are the appropriate treatment at this point, and may take some time to be effective. If the antibiotics do eliminate the symtoms, a prolonged course if three to six weeks should be administered. Infections that occur around implants are very difficult to resolve , and usually require implant removal . In this setting, I recommend waiting at least three months before attempting replacement. Have your surgeon examine you frequently and follow their instructions regarding care.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. Sorry to hear of the problems. If you suspect an infection, then there is only one acceptable answer....you need to be seen as soon as possible by your surgeon. If you cannot get in touch with your surgeon, then you need to go to your regular doctor or to a local ER for evaluation.Best of luck!Dallas R. Buchanan, MD, FACSOwner & Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonVIVIFY plastic surgery

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Momma bear82,
redness is one of the main signs of infection. I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. 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

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Because of this change in your recovery I would recommend reaching out to your surgeon for an in-person evaluation.  This may be a skin infection requiring antibiotics or may also indicate a fluid collection that needs to be addressed.  Your surgeon is your best resource, best wishes.

James M. Sheridan, MD · Answer

Dear Momma bear82,Thank you for your question.  If you haven't been seen by your surgeon since the redness started and they put you back on antibiotics I would request, insist, on being seen.  If you have an infection or another serious issue it is important that you be seen.  Hope this helps & good luck.James Sheridan, MD

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

You need in person examination and determination of potential infection, ASAP. Have you returned to see the operative surgeon yet?? Might also consider I.V. antibiotics with possible ozone therapy sessions.

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your surgery!

It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.

It is crucial to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is important for healthy results.

It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place. Should a revision cross your mind, it is best to wait at least 6 months to a year before doing so.

Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).

Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.

During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

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