My wife had a mastectomy with a direct implant 6 weeks ago. She had fever 2 weeks after surgery and Doctor changed her antibi

Question

2 weeks after surgery she had a fever l. The surgeon changed antibiotic and she was ok. The breast was starting to heal (the redness was getting better). After 5 weeks she was running a fever again and her breast was red again. He changed her meds again. She has no fever. I am very worried. What should I do. My wife goes to Doctor Tuesday

Michael S. Beckenstein, MD · Answer

Unfortunately she has a persistent infection that needs to be addressed ASAP! Intravenous antibiotics should be given, but it is highly possible that a salvage procedure or implant removal is the next step.

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Your wife's story is not uncommon. This may represent "red breast syndrome" but might be a seroma. Not necessarily an infection. Ask your plastic surgeon about the possible role of a cox2 inhibitor such as Singulair. Best of luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If the breasts have not improved with oral antibiotics, she might need Intravenous antibiotics. If that does not work, she might need the implant removed.

Tracy E. McCall, MD · Answer

There is a syndrome called red breast syndrome. Infection is also a risk. The best thing you can do is see the doctor. Do not do any treatments outside of those directed by your doctor.

My wife had a mastectomy with a direct implant 6 weeks ago. She had fever 2 weeks after surgery and Doctor changed her antibi

Answers (4)