A clean dry dressing will normally be applied to all surgery sites. Leave this dressing in place until tomorrow/day after surgery.
The day after surgery, clean the surgery site gently with a mild soap and water. Then apply a thin layer of Polysporin ointment to the surgical site. Repeat the cleaning and ointment application twice daily until the area is healed. Polysporin ointment can be purchased at any drug store without a prescription.
Cover the surgery site with a band-aid or other dressing until you return for stitch removal.
If a scab forms, compress the area with Hydrogen Peroxide for 5-10 minute and then apply a generous amount of Polysporin ointment. Repeat this twice daily until the scab falls off. If itchy red bumps or blisters occur, this may represent an allergy to the Polysporin. Call the office if this occurs.
If bleeding occurs, apply 20 minutes of constant pressure. If bleeding persists, call the office or go to the nearest emergency room.
The surgery site will be red, tender and sometimes bruised. These changes decrease with time. The stitches may itch, especially just prior to removal. Call the office if you experience swelling, pain, fever, chills or drainage from the surgery site.
Postoperative pain is usually minimal. The area will be numb for several hours after surgery. You may want to take two Tylenol prior to bedtime on the night after the surgery to prevent pain. If needed, you may take 2 Tylenol tablets every four hours until the pain subsides.
Try to minimize physical activity of the sutured area while your stitches are in and for one week after the stitches are removed.
The area removed from your skin will be submitted for microscopic examination. Our office will notify you of the results. If your specimen was sent to Richfield Derm. Pat. Diagnostics, and you have a question regarding your bill from them, you may contact them at 1-800-541-8531.
Return to the office on the specified date your doctor has arranged to have your stitches removed.
Postoperative Care of Skin Surgery Instruction Sheet (for printing)