SCAR REVISION AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONSPURE Cosmetic Center

You may have some bruising and swelling after surgery; this is normal. Bruising gets better in about 2 weeks. Much of the swelling improves by 2-3 weeks, but you may continue to have some swelling for 2-3 months after surgery.

• Call the office immediately if you experience any of the following:
  • Sudden excessive pain, excessive bleeding, sudden swelling or firmness of the area operated on.
• You can shower 48 hours after surgery. Soap and water can run over the incisions and the surgical tape, but be careful not to scrub or rub directly on the incisions while washing or drying off. Be gentle. Pat dry.
• NO baths, Jacuzzis, saunas, steam rooms, swimming, or submerging the incisions until after the incisions have completely healed. This is typically at least 4 weeks after surgery.
• If you have steri strips covering the area, leave these intact. Do not remove them. If they start to peel or lift up, you may trim the edges, but otherwise, leave them intact. 
• If the incision is left open, you may apply Vaseline over the incision and stitches 3-4 times daily. Keeping the area moistened will help it to heal. Apply Vaseline until the sutures are removed.
• You may use over-the-counter Tylenol and Ibuprofen for pain relief as long as you have no allergies or medical conditions that prevent you from taking these drugs. These medications may be taken together for maximum relief or staggered for more continuous pain control.
• Tylenol (acetaminophen) 1000 mg: take every 6 hours or as needed for pain.
• Motrin (ibuprofen) 600 mg: take every 6 hours or as needed for pain.
• Arnica Montana is a homeopathic anti-inflammatory that can help swelling and bruising resolve more quickly. It is available over the counter at most pharmacies in oral tablets or topical forms (gel, cream). You can apply to the skin where there is bruising and swelling but not directly over incisions. You can start the oral tablet 1-2 days before surgery or use the tablets or topicals after surgery.
• Avoid sun exposure to the face and neck for 6 weeks after surgery. Use sunscreen thereafter.
• Do not lift/push/pull anything heavier than a gallon of milk for the first week. After the first week, you may gradually increase lifting and activity, including exercise as tolerated.