BL with BA 7 weeks post op, I have a suture abscess with pus what is proper treatment?

Question

It opened today, pus was yellowish green and blood followed. My PS out of state said to treat it like a pimple and squeeze the pus out and wash with soap and water. There is redness and pain when pressed, should I be on antibiotics?

Michael Dobryansky, MD, FACS · Answer

If there is a retained suture there, permanent or absorbable it should be removed. You should be seen in the office once your plastic surgeon returns and obviously you need to let them know if the area gets worse since you may need other therapy such as antibiotics. Good luck!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.
  
I would recommend that you discuss this question with your surgeon as every surgeon has their own respective post op protocol for his/her patients.  Your surgeon is your best resource as he/she is most familiar with your medical history, how you are healing at this time and recommend appropriate wound care management.
The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.
  
Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.
  
Best of luck!
  
Dr. Schwartz
  
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
  
#RealSelf100Surgeon

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question! Suture abscess typically need to be treated by removing the suture causing the problem. This is because the sutures may remain for months before dissolving completely. Use of antibiotics is really up to the surgeon. Most of these infections are like a pimple, but if they don't improve then antibiotics may be necessary. Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Often this will go away with local wound care and often it does not need antibiotics.  If you have a permanent suture inside, then this may get infected and may need to be removed. Discuss this with your surgeon.

BL with BA 7 weeks post op, I have a suture abscess with pus what is proper treatment?

Answers (4)

Answer: Stitch abscess

Answer: Stitch abscess

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BL with BA 7 weeks post op, I have a suture abscess with pus what is proper treatment?

Answers (4)

Answer: Stitch abscess

Answer: Stitch abscess

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