Will having liposuction cause a herpes outbreak?

Question

I'm having liposuction in about a week and a half. I was just tested recently and my results were positive for HSV1. I have never had an outbreak, but I heard stress can cause one. I have had a ton of emotional stress for many months and still nothing, but would the physical stress of surgery all of a sudden cause an outbreak even though I have never had one before?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Trauma to the skin can trigger a HSV-1 (cold sores) outbreak. Discuss your herpes concern with your plastic surgeon, as he/she may want to prescribe an oral anti-viral medication prior to and after surgery.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

In general in my experience liposuction will not cause a herpes outbreak, but you should discuss it with your surgeon and take prophylaxis if the two of you feel it's indicated.

Dana Goldberg, MD · Answer

It is possible to have an outbreak from stress even if you haven't had one before. You can get a prescription for acyclovir or a similar antiviral medication from your primary care doctor or your surgeon. Discuss with them whether to take it for prevention the day of surgery or just keep it on hand after surgery. Good luck.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

Surgery is certainly a stress on your body.  If you are concerned with a herpetic outbreak please discuss with your surgeon.  You can take an antiviral as prophylaxis.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Yes stress of a surgery, any surgery, could possibly cause a heretic outbreak. Tell your surgeon and than he/she will decide if to pre op Rx you with Acyclovir meds.

Will having liposuction cause a herpes outbreak?

Answers (5)

More Liposuction Questions

Will having liposuction cause a herpes outbreak?

Answers (5)

More Liposuction Questions

Why do plastic surgeons in South America seem to have such beautiful results compared to so many plastic surgeons in the USA?

I am diagnosed with PAH and right heart failure is liposuction safe for me?

After having lipo on the arms how long do I have to wear the support garment?