Should I take antibiotics before surgery?

Question

I am scheduled for TT on 4.26.2017. Do I need to take any type of antibiotic before surgery to prevent infection?

Andrew T. Lyos, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Typically antibiotics are not prescribed prior to surgery unless there is a reason to do so.  You should check with your surgeon to advise.Best wishes, Andrew T. Lyos, M.D., FACS

Shain A. Cuber, MD · Answer

We do not have our patients start any medications until after the surgery. Check with the Dr. you are using to see what they would like you to do.

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Unless you have a specific medical reason to do so, antibiotics before surgery would typically not be necessary for a tummy tuck. If you have complicating medical factors (HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressant medication etc..) then speak to your surgeon to find out if it would be advised. Hope that helps!

Scott Loessin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Antibiotics are generally not prescribed prior to surgery, unless you have a certain medical condition that requires the use of them before a procedure.  Please check directly with your plastic surgeon to verify.  My patients get a prescription for an oral antibiotic that is to be started after surgery.  You will also be given an IV antibiotic at the hospital prior to your surgery.  Best of luck to you.

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

You should follow the advice of the surgeon who is operating on you.
In generalI I would not advise a fit and healthy individuals to take antibiotics before surgery unless there was a specific indication such as a chest infection. 
Antibiotics can cause harm as well as good. If you take antibiotics when you are otherwise well you encourage the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria on or in your body. This means that should you develop an infection after your surgery it is more likely to be with an antibiotic resistant bacteria and so it may be more difficult to treat.
Antibiotics  can also cause problems such as diarrhoea or thrush which may weaken your body leading up to your surgery.
Most surgeons will give you antibiotics around your surgery usually starting at the beginning of your operation once you are asleep. You should follow their advice for antibiotics.
Best wishes

Kenty Sian, MD · Answer

Most plastic surgeons routinely order the administration of IV antibiotics within a hour of the procedure. Kindly discuss this matter with your plastic surgeon during your pre-op visit. There is no need to take additional doses of antibiotics.

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

The only need for perioparative antibiotics is when there is an increased risk of an infection due to lack of ability to fully sterilize the surgical field or aeceptional consequences of developing an infection like placing a chin implant through the mouth or breast surgery where the ducts cannot be cleared or total joint replacements. A regular tummy tuck does not fit these categories. Therefore, there is no need for antibiotics prior to this surgery.

Amit Gupta, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

HelloThe pre surgery protocols are generally decided by the hospital policy or the doctor in charge in case the facility belongs to the doctor. As a general rule, antibiotics are given just before surgery ,and then followed up with oral tablets after the procedure. You will need to discuss with your Plastic Surgeon, who in fact should be discussing the preop management with you soonDr Amit Gupta

Should I take antibiotics before surgery?

Answers (8)

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