Sutured Wound (click here for a pdf version)


Please click here for a list of wound care supplies that you will need (pdf version).


  • No strenuous activity for 48 hours.

  • Resume moderate activity after 48 hours.

  • No aspirin or other over the counter products that contain aspirin and other blood thinners for 48 hours. Take Tylenol or aspirin free pain relievers as needed for discomfort.

  • No heavy exercising for 2 weeks.

  • No alcoholic beverages for 48 hours

  • Continue taking all prescribed medication.

  • Remove bandage in 24 hours


    • Wound Care After 24 Hours:


    • Clean area with tap water.

    • Dry the wound.

    • Apply Vaseline ointment to the wound.

    • Cover the wound with a fresh bandage.

    • Note: Covered wounds heal faster and with a better cosmetic result.

  • Keep the bandage dry. Wash around it carefully.

  • If the tape becomes soiled or starts to come off, reinforce it with additional paper tape.


  • Do not smoke for 3 weeks; smoking is detrimental to wound healing.

  • It is normal to have swelling and bruising around the surgical site. The bruising will fade in approximately 10-14 days. Elevate the area to reduce swelling.

  • Numbness, itchiness and sensitivity to temperature changes can occur after surgery and may take up to 18 months to normalize.


POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS:


Bleeding - If this occurs do the following:


  • Leave the bandage in place.

  • Use rolled up gauze or a clean cloth to apply direct pressure over the bandage for 20 minutes straight.

  • Reapply pressure for an additional 20 minutes if necessary.

  • Call the office or go to the nearest emergency room if pressure fails to stop the bleeding.

  • Use additional gauze and tape to reinforce the bandage once the bleeding has stopped.


Pain


  • Post operative pain should slowly get better, never worse.

  • A severe increase in pain may indicate a problem. Call the office if this occurs