What is the risk of reinfection if I get new implants 6 moths after treatment of cellulitis?

Question

Had cellulitis at scar under breast and treated it. Now implant is out for 6 months. If i chose to get a new one back in what’s the chance of re infection? Can it happen any time?

Serdar Bora Bayraktaroglu, MD · Answer

Waiting six months significantly lowers your reinfection risk. Once previous cellulitis is fully resolved and tissues heal, placing a new implant carries a standard, low reinfection risk similar to primary surgeries, typically one to two percent. Reinfections typically occur due to bacteria introduced during the surgical procedure or immediate recovery, rather than spontaneously flaring up years later out of nowhere. Because your implant has been out for six months, your surgeon has a clean, stable pocket to work with. Consult your board-certified plastic surgeon to confirm your tissues are fully ready.

David Shokrian, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Waiting six months after your infection has fully resolved is generally considered an appropriate timeframe before replacing a breast implant, and the likelihood of a successful outcome is very high. As with any elective surgery, there remains a small risk of infection, typically in the range of 3 to 5 percent, with the greatest risk occurring during the early postoperative period. Before proceeding, your surgeon should confirm that the infection has completely resolved. I also recommend preoperative cleansing with chlorhexidine to clear the possibility of having MSSA or MRSA colonized skin, which can increase the risk of postoperative cellulitis. I hope this information is helpful, and I wish you the very best with your procedure.
David Shokrian, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Yasemin Aydinli, MD · Answer

Six months infection-free is generally considered a safe interval for re-implantation, and most studies show success rates above 90% in this setting. The risk of reinfection is low but never zero, and it is highest in the early postoperative weeks rather than "any time." Confirming full resolution (normal exam, no residual inflammation) before surgery and meticulous sterile technique with antibiotic irrigation minimize the risk.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you had with your original augmentation.  Although there is no way to completely remove the risk of cellulitis recurring, there are things that you and your surgeon can do to minimize your risk.  Be sure to closely follow all post op instructions and keep your surgeon informed of any changes that concern you.

What is the risk of reinfection if I get new implants 6 moths after treatment of cellulitis?

Answers (4)

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