Will tummy tuck Infection go away just by taking antibiotics?

Question

12 days post op and on the right side of my tummy tuck incision it had become red and swollen. At first I thought it was just because the garment had irritated that area really bad but now I think it's an infection

Jaime Perez, MD · Answer

This is an
issue that needs to be directed at your plastic surgeon. I recommend scheduling
an appointment to be seen by him as soon as possible.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Please see you PS for follow up.This needs to be addressed by an exambest of luck!Dr Schwartz

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

From what you describe it sounds as though you may have an abscess deep to the flat. Antibiotics plus surgical drainage are generally indicated for treatment in the situation.

Thomas P. Sterry, MD · Answer

If you think you have an infection after something as significant as a tummy tuck you really need to see your plastic surgeon.  This is NOT something you should sit on.  Believe me, your doctor wants to know if something is not going right and he or she will be grateful if you come in earlier than expected to have a look. Sometimes antibiotics alone can clear these things up, but sometimes you need a little more help.Good Luck!

Raymond Jean, MD · Answer

Most skin infections after tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can be treated with oral antibiotics.  It is best to contact your surgeon to be seen.  Best of Luck.

Kiran Polavarapu, MD · Answer

I highly suggest you talk to your plastic surgeon. Your doctor should be able to tell you whether you need antibiotics or something more aggressive. It is difficult to advise you further without an examination, vitals, and a history of your postoperative recovery. In my office, I highly suggest anyone with uncontrolled pain, redness, swelling, or fevers contact me immediately or visit the emergency room. I'm sure your plastic surgeon would feel the same.

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

If the incision has become red and irritated, the first thing to do is to contact your plastic surgeon.  Superficial infections can be treated with oral antibiotics.   Occasionally a deep suture may have become infected and might need to be removed.  Don't delay calling your surgeon.

Russell G. Hendrick, Jr., MD · Answer

If you are noticing changes to your incision as you described, you need to call your surgeon to have the incision evaluated because a rather small problem can become a big one if not treated appropriately.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Roblesmasterpiece.Sorry to hear about the infection.I would get in to see the doctor right away to be sure that you have an infection, and to determine the best way to treat it.  I find that antibiotics usually do the trick, however, sometimes more is needed.  The longer you delay diagnosis and treatment, the worse it will get.So get on in there, and good luck.

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

It definitely sounds like an infection and you should see your surgeon immediately.  Most postoperative infections can be treated easily with antibiotics.  In some cases, a culture should be taken prior to starting the antibiotics. If you have a drain in that location, it could be coming from the drain, particularly if the drain isn't putting out any fluid.  Regardless, I can't emphasize enough that your surgeon needs to sort out all the various possibilities for this issue.  Early and appropriate treatment can result in a rapid cure.  Delay can rapidly turn into an unnecessary hospitalization and long term recovery.

Will tummy tuck Infection go away just by taking antibiotics?

Answers (12)

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