How do I care for my incision at home?
Nate Deisler- Check with your surgeon on the timing of your first shower following the procedure. You will likely have to wait 36-48 hours.
- When you are able to shower, face away from the shower spray.
- Don’t scrub the incision area. Just run soap and water over it.
- After showering, gently dry the incision areas with a clean towel.
- Wear the surgical bra until your surgeon instructs you otherwise.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid putting a heating pad, a hot compress, or an ice pack on your surgical site.
- Expect some drainage from the surgical site—especially from any places that have drains in them.
- Follow the instructions you receive about your drains and how to care for them.
- Keep your gauze pads clean, dry, and intact for a day after the surgery. It’s OK to remove them after a day.
- Avoid removing the steri-strips or skin glue over your incisions. These will disappear with time. If you have stitches, keep them as clean and dry and possible—they will either dissolve or your surgeon will decide when to remove them.
- Sleep with your head and chest slightly elevated above the level of your lower body—this will help with swelling.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Take short walks each day.
- Avoid sexual activity for one to two weeks.
