Post-Operative Home Care Instructions

**Do Not Smoke**

Typical Post-Operative Symptoms:

• Tingling, Burning, redness, tightness at the surgical site.
• Shiny skin or itchy feeling. Benadryl (or generic oral medication-use as directed on package) over the counter can alleviate itching.
• Bruising or swelling of the region.
• Asymmetry of surgical area.
• Localized discomfort if drain is in place (follow post-op drain instructions).
• Seeping of small amounts pink or yellow fluids (not pus) from incisions.
• Heaviness of the chest (if applicable to surgery).

Call the office immediately if you experience any of the following:

• A high fever (over 101°F), severe nausea and vomiting, continued dizziness or incoherent behavior, such as hallucinations.
• Any extreme pain that is not relived by pain medication.
• Bright red skin that is hot to the touch.
• Excessive bleeding or fluid seeping through dressings.
• A swollen or distorted appearance at the wound site.

Post-Op Comfort:

1. To alleviate any discomfort and to reduce swelling, you may apply cool, not cold, compresses to the wound site. Crushed ice or ice pack must be wrapped in a towel before being applied to the skin. Do not apply ice or anything frozen directly to the skin. Apply cool compresses for no longer than 20 minute intervals.

2. Rest reclining but not laying flat. Keep wound sites elevated.

3. Good nutrition: Fluids are critical- 8 oz every 2 hours. Refrain from alcoholic beverages while on medications. Maintain bland or soft food for 24 hours. Multivitamins, Vitamin D and C may be supplemented.

4. Take all medications as prescribed:

• Antibiotics until entire prescription is finished.
• Pain medication only as directed on bottle.
• Antibiotic ointments on incisions as directed by physician.
• Medications will only be prescribed during regular business hours of 8:00-4:30 Monday-Friday.

5. Keep incisions and/or dressings clean and dry. Leave dressings in place until office visit or otherwise instructed. Cleanse areas with antibacterial soap and water- use any ointment on incision before redressing.

6. Refrain from weight-bearing or strenuous exercises until further instructions. Relax. Do not do anything that would stress or stretch the skin in the region of the surgery.

7. No direct sun exposure without protective clothing or sunscreens.

8. Use scar creams on incisions sites after healing as directed by Dr Kreegel.

9. Massaging of surgical sites may be recommended.

Compression:

1. You may be placed in compression garments, wraps, or a surgical bra following surgery. Wear this 24 hours around the clock or as otherwise directed.

2. Remove garments for washing, changing, and showering only as directed until 1st post-op visit.

Hand and Wrist:

1. Follow special instructions provided by the office.

Your skin and scars may change with age. Contact our office with any questions or concerns you may have.