Applying Ointment
Apply remaining antibiotic ointment or Vaseline to suture line twice daily for two days after suture removal.
Keep suture line supple with moisturiser or Sorbolene cream.
Massage
Commence massaging one week after removal of sutures
Commence massaging, by using two fingers, one week after removal of sutures to encourage blood flow and assist suture line to decrease the build-up of scar tissue.
Perform massage to the scar tissue as firmly as can be tolerated at least twice a day for 5 – 10 minutes using Sorbolene cream or a moisturiser of your choice or Vitamin E oil.
Healing
Remember it takes time for surgical scars to heal completely and for the deep colour to fade. Please be patient.
Queries
If you have any concerns, please ring the Skin & Cancer Foundation Australia on Monday through to Friday between the hours of 8am and 5pm on (02) 88333 000. If it is the weekend, or you cannot return to the clinic and you think there is a problem with your wound, such as an infection, please do the following:
- Go to the GP.
- If started on antibiotics, ask to have a wound swab with a copy of the results sent to the Skin & Cancer Foundation Australia.
- Please ring and inform us of your visit to the GP so we can document this in your file.
- Signs of Infection are redness, tenderness, hot to touch and pus.
Follow Up Appointment
Please ensure that you have a follow up appointment for review in 4 – 6 weeks after surgery with your dermatologist.