Mycobacterial infection following blepharoplasty

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Blepharoplasty and ptosis correction are common ophthalmic surgical procedures.
• Mycobacterial infections are rare but serious complications following cosmetic surgery.
• Risk factors for infection include patient's occupation and anatomical predispositions.

Observation:

• A nursing home employee developed bilateral eyelid abscesses one month post-surgery.
• The patient had undergone combined blepharoplasty, ptosis correction, and breast implant replacement.
• A Jones tube was present in her right lacrimal system.

Findings:

• Cultures confirmed a nontuberculous mycobacterial infection.
• The infection required ten months of doxycycline therapy for resolution.
• Potential contributing factors included occupational exposure and the Jones tube.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare pathogens in post-surgical infections.
• Suggests careful patient selection and pre-operative assessment are crucial.
• Emphasizes the need for prolonged antibiotic courses in managing complex mycobacterial infections.