[Lipotourism, not without risks: a complication of cosmetic surgery abroad]

Abstract

Background: Postoperative infections with non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are rare. Early diagnosis is important so tailored antibiotic therapy can be started. This can prevent unnecessary radiological and surgical interventions.

Case description: A 40-year old woman underwent abdominoplasty and liposuction in Colombia. One and a half months postoperatively, she presented with a wound dehiscence followed by recurrent subcutaneous abscesses. She received multiple antibiotic courses and drainage procedures. Standard bacterial cultures remained negative. One and a half years later another abscess was drained and cultures grew Mycobacterium abscessus. Tailored antibiotic therapy was initiated and so far no large abscesses have re-occurred.

Conclusion: Infections with NTM should be part of the differential diagnosis in patients with postoperative wound infections, especially after cosmetic surgery performed in Latin America and the Caribbean. Unsuccessful wound healing, infection recurrence, sterile standard bacterial cultures and the lack of response to conventional antibiotic regimens should raise the suspicion of an NTM infection.