Postoperative Wound
Care Instructions
Common Postoperative Questions and Concerns
We are always available to talk with
you and address your concerns.
Postoperative Wound Care
-
Wash your hands with soap and water.
-
Remove the dressing - If the dressing is stuck to the wound, loosen it by soaking with a generous amount of tap water.
-
Cleanse the wound with tap water - the best time to do this is in the shower. No scrubbing or soap is necessary. Just let the water run over the surgical site. If crusting is present soak the wound with water and gently remove with a cotton swab.
-
Apply Vaseline - to entire suture line or wound area using a cotton swab.
-
Cover the wound - cut a piece of non-stick pad to size and place over suture line or wound. Secure the bandage with paper tape. Use just enough tape to keep the bandage in place, DO NOT secure the bandage on all four sides as this keeps the area too moist. If the site is small enough you may use a band aid.
Post-Op Questions & Concerns
Discomfort
Most patients experience little or no discomfort after surgery. However, if needed you may take Extra Strength Tylenol per package instructions, but no more than 8 tablets in a 24 hour period and for no more than 2 days. DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN PRODUCTS FOR THE FIRST 48 HOURS AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE UNLESS PREAPPROVED.
Swelling and Bruising
It is normal to experience a moderate amount of swelling and bruising at or around the surgery site in the first 48 hours. You may use ice compresses over the surgical area, which will help minimize any swelling. Place ice in a plastic bag and wrap the bag with a towel. Ice should be applied for only 15 minutes at a time; allow 15 minutes between applications. If your procedure was on your face, head or neck, sleeping with your head slightly elevated on an extra pillow can help to reduce swelling at the surgery site. If your procedure was on your hand, arm, leg or foot you will have an ace wrap to apply compression and help with swelling. You may take this on and off as needed to bathe, otherwise you should wear it at all times for 2 weeks, or until your sutures are removed. Keeping the affected limb elevated as much as possible in the first 24 hours can also help reduce swelling.
Infection
Infection is not common when the wound is properly cared for. If you have any of the following signs or symptoms of infection please call our office: You feel increased or excessive pain at the site, fever, increased redness or swelling, or pus draining from the wound.
Bleeding
When you leave our office you will have a bulky, white pressure dressing covering your surgery site. This dressing will stay on for 24-48 hours per your preference. This helps apply pressure and prevent bleeding. Bleeding is uncommon, however, to further reduce the risk please take the following precautions for the first 48 hours: No Aspirin or Aspirin containing products, no alcoholic beverages, no heavy lifting or straining, and no exercise. For mild bleeding, apply direct pressure over the dressing with clean gauze for 10-15 minutes.
For moderate/severe bleeding, remove the dressing and try to determine where the bleeding is coming from. Apply FIRM DIRECT pressure with clean gauze over this area for 20 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop, apply pressure again for 20 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop after 2-3 cycles of direct pressure, call our office for further instruction.
Bathing
You may shower 24-48 hours after your procedure per your preference. No swimming or hot tubs until your sutures are removed or as directed by your provider.
