When should I change the bandage?
- Every 4-5 days at most.
- It is better to change it immediately, if the bandage is wet after a shower or if it is a bit dirty. This will prevent the skin and wound from soaking.
- If the wound secretes excessive dirt or blood, contact your GP (general practician) or surgeon.
Is it normal for a stain to appear on my dressing?
- Yes, this can happen.
- There are often some dried blood stains on the dressing after surgery.
- As long as the amount of fluid is limited, one should not be worried.
- Pay attention to the colour and smell of the fluid loss.
Should I replace the Steristrips?
- You should not touch the Steristrips unless authorized by the doctor.
- Should a Steristrips come off, it is not a problem, the wound is usually already closed without Steristrips.
- Steristrips protect and help closing the wound by bringing the edges together.
Is it normal that my wound secretes fluid?
- The wound may bleed after surgery.
- If the oozing is light in colour, not smelly or slightly bloody, and if it dries up over time, you do not need to show it to your doctor. If the wound continues to excrete abundant fluid, a visit to your GP (general practician) or surgeon is necessary.
- If the fluid is smelly and/or purulent in colour, it may be a sign of an infected wound. If you suspect an infected wound, a rapid consultation with your GP (general practician) or surgeon is necessary.
When should I show my wound at the consultation / outpatient?
- On discharge, the patient will have received a follow-up appointment with the surgeon, usually after 10-14 days, and the advice to see the GP (general practician) after 5-7 days.
- If the wound shows one or more of the following symptoms, he should urgently contact his doctor or surgeon:
- Abundant fluid loss
- Purulent fluid discharge
- Redness
- Swollen wound
What if I am allergic to the dressing?
- If you show a skin reaction (allergic) to the plastic/plasticized dressing, use a non-plasticized dressing.
- If the problems persist, itchy, redness and blisters, it is better to apply a simple compress /swab and fix it with strips of a micropor roll (adhesive dressing) or leave the wound exposed to open air.
- Treat the blisters with a solution to dry them out.
Can I expose my scars to the sun?
- During the first year, you should avoid direct exposure of the wound to UV radiation. Exposure can lead to inflammation and disfiguring and permanent pigmentation (reddish-brown) of the scar.
What healing creams/ointments are recommended?
- No ointment/cream has been shown to be more effective.
- No ointment/cream can guarantee a more aesthetic scar.
- Many ointments/creams are available without prescription from pharmacies and para-pharmacies:
Bioderma Crème peau Lésée® , La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5®, Avène Cicalfate Crème Réparatrice®…