My face is very swollen. Allergic to antibiotic? Benadryl is not working. What else can I do?

Question

I had liposuction 4 days ago on my upper and lower abs. My face and eyes are very swollen today (no issues with breathing). I also have a rash on my face. The only med I have taken in the last 24 hrs is cephalexin. I took Benadryl and stopped antibiotic 4 hrs ago but face and eyes still really swollen. Is this a reaction to the antibiotic? Benadryl is not working. It is my son's b-day and I need to get rid of this rash on my face and for the swelling to go down.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You likely have a drug reaction and should speak to your physician about the treatment.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.

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

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Would you describe may very well be an allergic reaction to the anabiotic.

You should contact your plastic surgeon immediately and have him or her address your concerns.

Your doctor may or may not recommend that you switch to a different anabiotic or simply stop taking the anabiotic's.

Sometimes topical steroid cream's can help ask Hannah taking anti-inflammatory steroids like prednisone.

Please check with your doctor to see what he or she recommends.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom M.D.

My face is very swollen. Allergic to antibiotic? Benadryl is not working. What else can I do?

Answers (3)