Post-Op Fever After Plastic Surgery: When to Worry About Infection

Dr. Alain Polynice discusses postoperative fever after plastic surgery, noting that a mild temperature rise right after surgery can be common, but fever around day three or four may signal infection—especially with spreading redness, significant warmth, purulent drainage, or pus. He explains that slight warmth or redness limited to the incision can be normal, but redness that spreads and is increasingly warm to the touch should be monitored daily (including taking pictures) and may indicate worsening infection that can progress to sepsis. He highlights warning signs after breast surgery such as tender redness or markedly increased swelling on one side. Although patients receive antibiotics during and after surgery, infections can still occur, including infected sutures; prompt treatment is important, particularly with implants. He advises contacting your doctor immediately or calling 911 if needed, as IV antibiotics or minor suture removal and dressing may be required.

00:00 Post Surgery Fever Basics

00:24 Normal vs Concerning Temps

00:49 Incision Redness Warning Signs

01:16 Breast Surgery Infection Clues

01:29 Antibiotics and Infection Risk

01:51 When to Call or Go ER

02:16 Prevention and Final Takeaway

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