How to Reduce Infection after Plastic Surgery
When considering altering your appearance with plastic surgery, there are several things to consider, such as the procedures you want, choosing a reputable surgeon, how your body responds to surgery. At The Landings Surgical Centre in Halifax, NS, one of our highly trained surgeons will take the time to meet with you to discuss all your questions and concerns during your initial consultation.
We offer a variety of facial plastic surgery and body contouring procedures to meet our patients unique needs. Knowing what to expect ahead of the process and how to reduce infection after plastic surgery will increase your chances for a smooth recovery and help you achieve optimal results.
What Causes Infection?
As with any surgery, there is always a risk for infection when undergoing plastic surgery. Because your skin is designed to protect your organs and tissues within your body from outside bacteria and other environmental toxins, once the skin is opened, whether on purpose or by injury, bacteria can enter the body. No matter how tightly closed the incisions are, the skin is still susceptible if careful attention is not made to keep the surgical site clean.
Bacteria can entire the incision via:
- The air
- Unclean hands
- Unsterilized surgical instruments
- Untreated bacteria on the skin
Signs of Infection
Knowing what to look for ahead of time can help you reduce your chances for severe infection. Possible side effects can include:
- Increased pain and swelling after 48 hours
- Redness around the incision
- Warm skin
- Fluid discharge that is yellow or green
- Fever
- Foul odor near the incision site
What Measures Can Be Taken to Reduce Infection?
The actual risk for infection is extremely low, but depends greatly on who you choose to perform your surgery and caring for your surgical site. Choosing an experienced and well-known surgeon with a high patient satisfaction who adheres to the highest level of patient care and performs surgeries at an accredited facility will significantly reduce your risk for infection.
Both Dr. Bendor-Samuel and Dr. Boileau have over 20 years of experience and are known for their meticulous attention to detail. The Landings Surgical Centre is a fully accredited facility that offers the latest technology and comforts.
Once your procedure is completed, your doctor will provide you with a list of post-surgical instructions to follow to ensure you achieve a smooth recovery. These instructions will include:
- Medications to take
- How to care for your surgical site
- Follow-up appointments to attend
- Activities and habits to avoid that could delay healing
- Resting as much as possible (this will strengthen your immune system)
- Keeping your home environment clean and free of unhealthy bacteria
Properly caring for your incisions is key to reducing infection. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to call the doctor right away. Patients who follow their at-home care instructions have a greater chance of healing quickly and achieving positive results.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are interested in undergoing one of our plastic surgery procedures at The Landings Surgical Centre, we would be glad to meet with you to discuss your aesthetics goals, as well as the risk and benefits involved. To schedule your consultation, you can reach us online today or by calling (866) 928-0023.