Surgical operations are quite common in our time. Most patients agree to them without the slightest fear and doubt, some even do "optional" operations at their own expense - we are, of course, talking about plastic surgery. And yet, many people are not even worried about how the intervention will go, but how noticeable the stitches will be after the operation. Do not forget that how quickly and how well the incisions heal depends largely on the care of them during the recovery period.
Basic rules for suture care during the recovery period
Surely you will be told how to take care of the stitches after the operation when you are discharged, but if the medical staff forgot about it or you don’t remember, we remind you. The main rule is to always keep the seam clean and dry. If the incision has already healed well enough, and there is no open wound, you can wash it with plain water and laundry soap. After each hygiene procedure, it is imperative to apply an antiseptic. Zelenka, iodine or potassium permanganate solution will do. But the regular use of alcohol or cologne for washing should be abandoned - the thing is that these compounds dry the skin too much. If availableeven the slightest suspicion that the sutures after the operation were contaminated, they should be washed with hydrogen peroxide. The same procedure is necessary for festering sutures.
To wear a bandage or not?
The issue of dressings during the rehabilitation period after surgery should be decided by the doctor. It all depends on the depth and length of the incision, where it is located, how well it heals, and other factors. The patient must listen to their own feelings. For example, if the sutures cling to clothing after surgery, a bandage should be applied at least during periods of physical activity. Another topical question: should the seams be treated with special ointments that accelerate healing, or is it easier to let everything take its course? It is worth using folk remedies with caution, but among pharmacological products there are many compounds that have proven themselves positively. The most popular remedy is Levomekol ointment, you can also use any panthenol-based products. After removing the threads, scars can be treated with special oils and various compounds that accelerate cell regeneration and moisturize the skin.
Recovery time after surgery: will the stitches heal soon?
The question of the duration of rehabilitation after surgery is more than individual. On average, the stitches are removed for 7-10 days. In some situations, this period can be extended to two weeks, more - rarely, as it increasesrisk of ingrown threads into the skin. Remember: Your doctor or nurse should remove your stitches after surgery, unless you were told otherwise when you were discharged. After the threads are removed, scar care must be continued. Regardless of how the rehabilitation after the operation goes, the incision site is considered to be completely healed approximately one month after the intervention. Namely, when a clear scar is formed.
