Reducing Your Risk of Infection after Cosmetic Surgery

Your cosmetic surgery was a success. You’ve been sent home with a stack of informational material from your doctor about how to take care of yourself after the surgery. This may include instructions on changing your dressing, bathing or showering, reducing scarring and infection, and certain medications to avoid. It may all seem a bit overwhelming. However, of all the instructions you are given, one of the most important is how to reduce your risk of infection after your surgery.

Although your risk of developing an infection after cosmetic surgery is less than 1 percent, an infection may actually affect your appearance. In severe cases, it may even be life-threatening. If you feel your incision site may have become infected, contact your plastic surgeon right away to schedule a follow-up appointment.

What Are the Risks of Developing an Infection?

Infection, or an overgrowth of bacteria under the skin, is always a potential risk any time the skin is cut open. Your skin serves as a natural defensive barrier against infection. Anybody who undergoes surgery can be at risk for an infection, but there are some factors that can increase the risk. Diabetics, smokers, people with certain vascular conditions, and those who take steroids are at a greater risk of developing an infection. Additionally, the longer the surgery takes, the greater the risk.

Infection will affect how the incision site heals, which can in turn affect its final appearance. This may mean you will end up with a much more visible scar than you would otherwise. You may need to have the incision site drained if you develop an infection, which can also increase the appearance of any scar. If you have any augmentation, the implant may have to be removed if an infection spreads there from the incision site. Your doctor may have to wait another three to six months before reinserting the implant.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Infection?

The most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to keep the incision site clean and dry. Avoid touching the incision site or the sutures. One of the easiest ways an infection can develop is via germs on the fingers. Wash your hands thoroughly with an antibacterial soap before changing your dressing or bandage. If antibiotics are prescribed, take them as directed.

How Can I tell if I Have Developed an Infection?

Signs of infection include increased pain, redness, or warmth at the incision site. A fever of 101.5°F or higher is another indicator, as well as any foul odor, pus, or clear fluid coming from the incision site. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately to schedule a consultation.

Our surgeons will strive to reduce your risk of developing an infection during and after the surgery. With proper care after surgery, you can do your part to prevent any infection that may prolong your healing process. Together, we can make your recovery as effortless as possible.

Contact Crawford Plastic Surgery today to schedule an appointment.