How to care for a surgical incision

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A surgical incision requires proper care to promote faster healing as well as minimize the risk for infection.

When to remove the bandage

The bandage is usually removed the day after the surgical procedure. The doctor will ask the individual to replace the bandage on a daily basis. Most wounds do not necessitate the application of a bandage, but he/she can decide to use one to protect the surgical incision.

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What should I expect?

The borders of a healing incision might appear slightly reddened. This redness is relatively normal but a doctor should be consulted if the redness increases or spreads more than half an inch from the wound.

Get in touch with a doctor if there is drainage of pus or if it is more than mildly tender or sore. The doctor will recommend the application of an antibiotic cream on the incision.

Surgical incision
Apply pressure directly on the incision for a few minutes to stop the bleeding.

Bleeding

Once the bandage is soaked with blood, it should be replaced with dry gauze or bandage. Apply pressure directly on the incision for a few minutes to stop the bleeding. In case the wound continues to bleed after the application of pressure, consult a doctor.

Keeping the incision dry

It is important to keep the incision clean and dry during the initial 24 hours. The individual should avoid bathing or showering on the first day. A sponge bath is usually recommended.

The individual can wash the area using soap and water on the second day. A shower is recommended instead of taking a bath if there are stitches or a skin tape placed on the incision. Carefully towel dry the site after cleansing.

When are stitches removed?

The internal stitches are taken up by the body progressively and do not require removal. The doctor will get rid of the stitches that are not absorbed into the tissues.

The stitches are typically eliminated 3 days up to 3 weeks after the procedure depending on the location and how rapidly one heals.

The doctor will apply a skin tape after the stitches were removed. The skin tape is used to provide additional support to the wound. The tape should be taken out in 3-7 days. The healing skin might require months to regain its strength.

More Information / Disclaimer

The information posted on this page on caring for a surgical incision is for learning purposes only. Learn to provide proper wound care to surgical incisions by taking a standard first aid course with Saskatoon First Aid.

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