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CICATRIX * OPTIMA 1720 HOWARD AVE, SUITE 364 WINDSOR, ON N8X 5A6 TEL/FAX: 519.971 0971 |
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Post-Operative Instructions Wound Care You may find that you become dizzy or lightheaded when changing position. In addition you will be sore. You should move slowly and with caution until this feeling passes. Please call us if you experience severe pain and swelling.
It is not uncommon to have a moderate amount of drainage from your incisions after this procedure. It will generally not last beyond the first few days, during which time you may wish to protect your bed linens with towels.
You may apply ice (or a small package of frozen peas or carrots) intermittently for comfort and to decrease the bruising and swelling. Do not apply the ice directly on to the operative site.
Prolonged external bleeding is easily detected. Blood may seep through the incision and may leak through the dressing. It may be either active bleeding or an accumulation of fluid coming out through a surgical drain. You may experience acute swelling of the area, discolouration of the skin, pain and a feeling of tension. If you experience these symptoms, please contact us. If it continues, the surgeon may have to stop it after reopening the incision.
Bruising and discolouration are to be expected. This will mostly disappear in approximately 2-4 weeks. You may find, due to swelling following surgery, that you appear larger than before surgery. Skin tightening begin about 4 weeks after surgery and continue slowly up to one year. A feeling of tightness in your upper inner arm may persist for several weeks. This is a natural result of removal of excess tissue and will resolve with time.
You may experience some numbness and tingling in the skin over the areas that have been operated on. This will also resolve with time.
Once your incision is completely healed, we ask that you cover it with surgical paper tape for a period of 3 months. This will help to support the scar and keep it flat. You do not have to remove the tape on a daily basis, as it may tear your skin. Replace it only when it comes off on its own.
Medications:
Getting your life back to normal Drink regularly and as much as you can. It is important that you stay well hydrated. In addition to a healthy diet, you need to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day for the first week following your surgery. Do not drink any alcohol during the first two weeks.
When in bed, lie comfortably. Use several extra pillows under your arms if this makes you more comfortable. In other words, sleep and rest in whatever position is comfortable for you.
You may shower after your first dressing change, about 48 hours post-operatively.
Wear your support garment continually for 4 weeks. Thereafter, you should wear it during the daytime for another 2 weeks.
We encourage you to start walking almost immediately after your surgery to diminish the risk of blood clots in your legs, as a result of immobilization from the anaesthetic. Even while you are resting, you should be moving your feet and ankles frequently to promote circulation in your legs. In our experience, this will help you will recover much faster, and with fewer complications.
Heavy physical activity should be limited for approximately one month. Avoid lifting heavy objects for 6 weeks. Strenuous aerobic activity can be resumed at approximately 4 weeks post operatively. By and large, you should let your body be your guide. If it doesn’t hurt, go do it. If it does hurt, stop.
Do not smoke for at least 6 weeks after surgery.
You can call us with any further questions you may have. |
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