Wound Care: Bandaging

 
Clean the wound

Step 1
​​CLEAN THE WOUND

​Use clean cotton balls soaked in hydrogen peroxide. Your wound can also be cleaned in the shower with a mild soap and water at this point.

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Step 2
VASELINE

​Apply a thin layer of Vaseline (unless directed otherwise) over sutures. Fill open wounds entirely with Vaseline.

Step 3
For Smaller Wounds

Regular band-aids will work for smaller wounds. Just be sure that only the nonstick (white) pad is touching the wound.

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Fabric band-aids are recommended due to their flexibility.

​FOR LARGER OR IRREGULARLY SHAPED WOUNDS

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For larger wounds, non-stick pads can be found at any pharmacy. DO NOT use gauze. Trim the pad to the size of the wound.

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Adhere to the skin using paper tape or skin tape. We recommend paper tape for patients with thin or sensitive skin.

Wound Care Tips ​


When changing your bandage, notify the office if your wound has:

  1. Abnormal drainage

  2. A bad odor

  3. Redness and warmth around the wound

  4. Increasing pain

  5. Swelling

Or you develop a fever.

​Managing pain is essential for quality of care:

  • You should not experience significant pain after surgery

  • If wound is painful, take regular or Extra strength Tylenol (as this is not a blood thinner)

  • In addition, a cold compress (i.e. cool wet towel) can be used over the area.

  • If these steps do not provide relief, please contact us so we can help!

We're always happy to help!

Activity Restrictions

  • ​No heavy lifting (over 5 lbs)

  • Avoid strenuous activity

  • Avoid bending over

  • If your wound is open, restrictions may last 2 weeks or more.

  • If you have stitches, restrictions last until stitches are removed.