Pinkness near incision after Strattice reconstruction. Want a second opinion, does this look infected? (photos)

Thanks for your question. You look excellent! It's always a dilemma when this occurs. I would agree with doing the antibiotic to be safe, but sometimes an oral or topical steroid can help take down the inflammation. I'd visit your surgeon regularly until this subsides. Best wishes

Answer:  It is not uncommon to see a red or pink breast after Strattice placement.  You hit upon the million dollar question.  Is this normal or is this an infection.  From the photo it is difficult to say.  Generally speaking, if there are no other signs of infection (redness, pain, drainage) than the chance of it being an infection is very low.  If there is any question, I recommend following up with your surgeon.  Sometimes it is difficult for us to tell as well. But if there is an implant in place, I tend to error on the aggressive side and start antibiotic therapy as a precaution.

Infection after reconstruction typically causes pain, increasing redness,fever. Your photo appears normal to me. Breast removal changes blood flow and skin flaps can have a mild redness like yours. As long as tissues feel soft and there is no pain. I typically do not use a Zpack but your PS may have a different experience. You look good for 10 days to 2 weeks!