Plastic Surgery Instructions (Scalp Wound):
-Avoid any excessive pressure on your scalp wound.
-Check your scalp flap at least twice a day for any signs of ischemia (the flap will look pale), venous stasis (the flap will look purple), temperature change, or fluid collection. The flap should have a similar color and temperature as the surrounding normal tissue. If you notice an acute change, please notify your surgeon immediately.
-Ok to shower starting 48 hours after surgery.
-If you have a drain:
- Strip your drains at least 3 times per day. If you use a small amount of soap/water or hand sanitizer on your hand while stripping the drain, it makes the process easier.
- Record the individual drain output daily. Bring the record to your follow-up appointment.
- Make sure the JP bulb is on suction by squeezing the bulb and then replacing the cap. When the bulb is suctioned and providing negative pressure, it should be slightly indented.
-You may change the gauze pads (4×4’s) or ABD pads around the drain and incision line as needed. If your wound is closed, do not apply any dressing, unless the wound edges ooze slightly.
-Take your pain medication with food (a few crackers are ok) to help prevent nausea.
-Pain medications can cause constipation. Take a gentle over the counter laxative (Milk of Magnesia, Colace, or Dulcolax) if you feel constipated.
-Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen for at least 2 weeks following surgery unless specifically instructed. This can lead to bleeding issues.
-Smoking causes multiple wound healing complications. It is very important that you do not smoke, and you are not around people that smoke for at least 6 weeks after surgery. Secondhand smoke is just as harmful as if you were to smoke.
-Avoid exposing the scars to the sun for at least 6 to 12 months. When going outside, it is recommended that you use SPF 30 or greater over your surgical sites. All incisions will be extremely sensitive during the healing phase.