Can I put polysporin on the sutures 7 days post-op? (Photo)

Question

Will polysporin help the healing process for the sutures under my arm 7 days after my BA surgery?

Samuel Shatkin, Jr., MD · Answer

I prefer not using polysporin ointment on scars that are closed.  I have seen rashes and irritation from the use of antibiotic ointment in this situation.  For areas that are dry and flaking, one can use aquaphor ointment or Vitamin oil.

Sachin Chitte, MD, FRCSC · Answer

in the first few days after surgery, antibiotic ointments can be helpful, but generally, after sutures are removed and the wound is closed, scar creams, such as those containing silicone, are more likely to help improve your scar.  Since each surgeon has their own protocol, it's best to check with your surgeon.Regards,

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Since every surgeon has his or her own unique post op protocol, your surgeon is best equipped to answer this. Personally, I like my patients to use a silicone based scar cream. My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

David E. Kim, MD · Answer

I would put a scar cream on the incision after the sutures are removed. Any type of silicone based cream would be good.

Robert Shenker, MD · Answer

Using polysporin is fine but I would recommend that you limit its use to just a couple of days. Afterwards, keeping the scar moist using a thin layer of Vaseline or other simple moisturizer is probably best. There are other options such as a silicone scar gels which work fairly well for minimizing the appearance of scars. Unfortunately, the use of polysporin for more than a few days can often result in even more irritation. I hope this helps!Dr RoBert Shenker  MD FRCSC

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Some surgeons recommend ointments and others recommend to keep it taped or dry. Best to ask your surgeon.

Scott R. Brundage, MD · Answer

First, I would do whatever your surgeon recommends. I usually do not use antibiotic ointment in this location. The ointment is not going to change your scar outcome. Redness is normal early on. If you are having increasing pain or drainage that is different and you should see your surgeon. Too much ointment under the arms can retain moisture. A small amount would be fine but probably is not needed.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Polysporin on Sutures,

Thank you for your clinical post and
photograph.  Polysporin is best used in
the early phase of a healing wound when the skin surface or epidermis has not
yet fully covered the incision.  Once it
has re-epithelialized the use of Polysporin is generally less effective and in
fact can cause skin irritation. 
Transaxillary incisions such as yours are prone to slower healing as
it’s a moist environment and this skin edges tend to macerate.  Using a dry gauze in the axilla with no
topical antibiotic is usually your best option.

However, the person best in a
position to help you most is your operative surgeon.  Please contact their office and find out
their dressing regime recommendations as all surgeons are different.

I’m sure you’ll get and excellent
result and best of luck.

To find out more, please visit the
link below. Focus on the areas of transaxillary augmentation.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

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