Please read the following instructions to assure proper healing and optimal cosmetic outcome.

WOUND CARE:

DAY 1-2: FIRST 48 HOURS FOLLOWING SURGERY

• Please keep the pressure dressing dry and intact for approximately 48 hours (or 2 days).
• Elevate: Slightly elevate the involved surgical site to decrease pain and swelling.
• Ace bandage (if applied): You may loosen the Ace bandage at night. Continue using the Ace bandage during the day.

DAY 3: AFTER THE FIRST 48 HOURS FOLLOWING SURGERY

1. Remove the outer pressure dressing
2. Wash wound with soap (or shampoo) & water or clean with hydrogen peroxide.
3. Gently pat the wound dry with a clean washcloth/towel.
4. Apply bland ointment (Vaseline or Aquaphor) and re-bandage.
5. Repeat daily or twice daily until sutures are removed.

** Special circumstances:

1. Steri-Strips: If placed over the sutures, please leave steri-strips in place. You can shower normally then pat the area dry. There is no need to apply ointment. Steri-strips will be removed at suture removal. If steri-strips fall off before, you can follow steps 2-5 above.
2. Skin grafts: If placed, please leave the yellow bolster intact.
3. Granulating wounds (wounds not repaired): There may be dry crusty blood after you remove the pressure bandage. Do not be alarmed. This is NORMAL. Follow steps 2-5 above.

PAIN RELIEF:

• Pain is to be expected during the first 2 days and should improve on day 3.
• Take Extra-Strength Tylenol (500-1000mg) every 6-8 hours as needed for pain.
  • Please note that the max dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol) is 3000mg in 24 hours.
• Avoid aspirin (Bayer/Excedrin), ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), unless otherwise instructed. These can increase your risk of bleeding.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• A little pink/redness around the surgical site occurs as part of the normal healing process.
• Please avoid alcohol for 48 hours after surgery as this can increase your risk of bleeding.
• Please avoid any athletic activity for 72 hours after surgery to avoid bleeding.
• For optimal cosmetic results, avoid any stretching or pulling of the surgical site.

PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY FOR:

• BLEEDING: Your highest risk is the first 48 hours. If you note bleeding, place steady, firm pressure over the bandage for 20-30 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call us.
• INFECTION: Signs include redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, increased pain, or pus.
• DEHISCENCE: This occurs when the wound opens up, usually due to bleeding or infection.

SCAR REVISION AND COSMETIC IMPROVEMENT:

• Nearly all scars improve with time. Please be patient.
• Lasers, dermabrasion, and other options are available. Please ask about options.

Thank you for choosing to have your surgery with us!
For any questions or concerns, please call the office directly at 310-385-6024.