Is Clindamycin HCL the appropriate treatment for breast infection?

Question

Hello, I am 7 weeks post op from a breast lift. I have been spitting stitches and once a week the PS has been removing them. I went in today because I felt I had a infection. After seeing the PS he confirmed that I do have a infection and is treating me with Clindamycin HCL 300 mg 3 X daily. The reason I am wondering if this is appropriate is because his partner was in the exam room and she suggested Cephalexin and he said no. Is the Clindamycin a better choice?

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

There is no blanket answer on antibiotics. You need to speak with your surgeon as to the best one for your individual condition. Sorry that you are experiencing this. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have a breast infection then this should be managed aggressively with appropriate antibiotics. There is no cookie-cutter answer for the right antibiotic and your doctor should obtain cultures, if appropriate, and choose the right antibiotic. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Shim Ching, MD · Answer

Clindamycin is a good choice of antibiotic for your infection.  Most of us would agree that it is an appropriate choice of antibiotic for infections after a breast lift.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Yes, clindamycin is a good choice assuming no allergies… If  the infection does not resolve, cultures may be helpful; based on culture results, antibiotic therapy can be targeted. Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

There are often many options for antibiotic coverage for infections. Clindamycin or keflex cover similar organisms as long as your are not allergic to them you can take them.

Is Clindamycin HCL the appropriate treatment for breast infection?

Answers (6)