Caring for Your Incision After Plastic Surgery
1. Keeping the Incision Clean
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your incision.
• Clean gently with sterile saline or antiseptic solution as prescribed.
• Pat the incision dry with sterile gauze—never rub.
• Avoid applying creams, powders, or oils unless directed by your surgeon.
2. Changing Dressings
• Change dressings as instructed, usually once daily or if soiled.
• Always use sterile gauze and medical tape.
• Do not reuse dressings.
• If steri-strips or skin glue are used, allow them to fall off naturally—do not peel.
3. Bathing & Showering (Detailed)
• Showering is usually allowed after 48 hours, only if your surgeon approves.
• If drains are present, ask your surgeon when showering is safe.
• Before showering: remove garment/dressings if instructed, prepare clean towels and new dressings.
• Use mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid scented or antibacterial unless prescribed.
• During shower: let lukewarm water flow gently over the incision; do not scrub or use direct pressure.
• Keep soap and shampoo away from the incision area.
• After shower: pat incision dry gently, never rub.
• Let incision air-dry briefly if possible before reapplying dressings.
• Replace garment as instructed.
• Do not bathe, swim, or use hot tubs until surgeon approval (usually 3–4 weeks).
• Avoid hot water, sauna, or steam rooms as they can worsen swelling and infection risk.
4. Monitoring for Infection
• Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling.
• Yellow/green discharge or foul smell from the incision.
• Fever higher than 38°C.
• Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication.
5. Scar Care (Once Healed)
• Begin scar massage when incision is fully closed (after 2–3 weeks or as directed).
• Apply silicone gel or silicone sheets daily to reduce scar thickness.
• Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) on exposed scars to prevent darkening.
6. Activity Restrictions
• Avoid stretching, pulling, or tension on incision.
• No heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until cleared.
• Wear compression garment if prescribed.
7. Stitches, Staples, or Drains
• Stitches or staples are usually removed after 7–14 days.
• If drains are present, record fluid output and keep the site clean.