Instructions for Incision Care: Non-Dissolvable Stitches

Oozing or bleeding is expected for a couple days after your procedure. If this happens, elevate the area of the incision above the level of your heart, if possible, and apply gentle pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. If the incision is on your face or scalp, you may want to place an old towel or pillowcase on your pillow the first night in case there is any oozing.

Please leave the bandage that was applied after your procedure on until tomorrow, then remove it gently.

When your bandage is removed, you will notice some dried blood and/or scabbing around your incision. You may gently clean the area with a cotton swab dipped in 3% hydrogen peroxide, or with warm water and mild soap.

You may shower and let soap and water gently run over the incision beginning the day after your procedure. Lightly blot the incision site dry. Please avoid any direct water pressure. Do not put your incision completely under water or soak your incision for 2 weeks following your procedure.

Once the site is clean and dry, apply over-the-counter bacitracin ointment (antibiotic ointment) to your stitches. Bacitracin should be applied 2 to 3 times daily for the first 3 days following your procedure. After the third day, please switch to over-the-counter Aquaphor® ointment, which is gentler on the skin.

If you want, you may apply an adhesive bandage or gauze/tape dressing to cover your incision. You do not have to cover your incision as long as you have applied ointment.

Bruising and swelling is normal. The bruising and swelling will be at its height 72 hours after your procedure. The area will look its worst 3 to 4 days after your procedure and then slowly start to look better.

To minimize swelling and bruising, keep the incision site elevated as much as possible for the first 3 days following your procedure.

Please do not use ice.

You may use over-the-counter medications for pain or discomfort such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or pain medicine prescribed by your physician, as needed.

Please do not use anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) or naproxen (Aleve®) for 48 hours following your procedure.

Your stitches are on top of your skin and need to be removed. Make an appointment for removal of your stitches by our nurse in 5 to 7 days, unless instructed otherwise by your physician.

Please call our office if you notice any of these symptoms: