Aftercare….Wounds

We repair wounds for several different reasons..

• For cosmetic purposes
• To restore function and stop bleeding
• Prevent infection
• Enhance the wound healing process

The aftercare of the wound is just as important as the initial treatment of the wound. Remember it takes several weeks to months for a wound to heal completely.

I like to recommend that the wound…..

• should not be gotten wet for the first 24 to 36 hours.
• I don’t like to have the wound covered except while you are at work when there is risk of getting the wound contaminated with dirt.
• do not apply any ointment to the surface of the wound
• clean the wound only with .9% saline solution

Any redness, swelling, increased pain or pus coming from the wound means it is getting infected and you should return to the office as soon as possible.

General rule of thumb is that sutures are removed..

• in 5 days from the face
• in 7 to 10 days from other areas of the body.

Vitamin E can be applied to the wound after the crust or scab falls off.

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