Am I having an allergic reaction to the topical antibiotic or is this incision infected? (Photos)

Question

I'm 4 days postop submental lipo with muscle tightening and bucal fat removal. I had a drain from this ear for two days. Day 2 postop I toticed itching and burning. As I looked more closely today I see redness. I discontinued bacitracin and simply washed incision with peroxide and then water and dried. Should I be worried. My skin is red and I'm worried.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with your Doctor for a formal evaluation to rule out infection and if necessary provide treatment. Best, Dr. Emer

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

Discuss with your surgeon.  Infection, reaction to antibiotic ointment, or normal healing are all possibilities that can be best answered by your surgeon.,

David Stoker, MD · Answer

It could be either an allergic reaction or an infection.  Discuss it with your surgeon. I would have my patient stop the ointment and wash with soap and water behind the ears twice per day.  It would also be reasonable to start an antibiotic now. Good luck.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You did the right thing. Sometimes bacitracin or neo sporin can irritate and cause the redness around the incision. It more look like reaction than infection. I recommend you talk to your PS for evaluation.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Bottom line see your surgeon and be evaluated in person.  After an examination he will be able to make recommendationsDr Corbin

Peter Newen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, Thank you for your photos and explaining your current situation. It looks like a reaction not an infection. However, I suggest to contact your operating Surgeon so that he/she can evaluate you in person and properly diagnose you.We wish you the best of luck!

Jon A. Perlman, MD (retired) · Answer

It's difficult to tell from your photos but either an early ointment reaction or an infection may be occurring.  Give your surgeon a call to discuss.  I assume that you are on an antibiotic already but let your doctor know your symptoms.J P MD

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Am I having an allergic reaction to the topical antibiotic or is this incision infected? (Photos)

Answers (7)

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