The Role of Antibiotics in Oculoplastic Surgery

Abstract

The use of antibiotics in the treatment of active periocular infections and in the prevention of postoperative infections has gained special interest in the oculoplastic community. The emergence of drug-resistant organisms has changed antibiotic selection in the treatment of periocular infection and also placed an emphasis on antibiotic stewardship. Infections of the eyelids, orbit, and lacrimal system arise from different etiologies and, thus, different organisms. The prophylactic use of antibiotics during surgery of the orbit, eyelids, or lacrimal system should be based on evidence-based studies. The purpose of this chapter is to review the current treatment of periocular infections and the evidence for the use of prophylactic antibiotics before, during, and after oculoplastic surgery.