Elective Procedure Post Care Instructions

• Do not remove or wet bandage/dressing for 24 hours post procedure.
• After 24 hours, remove bandage/dressing and soak gauze or clean cloth with Saline Solution (Saline Solution is available at your local Pharmacy or Medical Supply Store). You can also make it at home: Boil 1 litre of water and add one tablespoon of salt, store in the refrigerator. 
• Cover the wound with a moderate amount of Fucidin ointment, Vaseline, Polysporin ointment or Petroleum Jelly. 
• Apply a new bandage/dressing and keep the wound area covered. 

Continue the above TWICE DAILY for the duration specified by the provider. This is typically 1 week, 2 weeks or until the wound has healed (wound is clear from any scab or redness)

The site should be kept covered when showering. Hot Tubs and Baths should be avoided. Follow provider direction if exercise should be avoided and for how long (typically, we recommend no exercise for 7-10 days or until healed following for most removals procedures. With the exception of excisions, patients should refrain from exercise for 2-3 weeks after)

Note: Sutures (If applicable) may be removed by your family doctor or at a walk in clinic, if more convenient for you. Dissolvable sutures can take 7-10 days on the face, and 10-15 days on the body to dissolve. If not dissolved, you may trim any access with scissors. Please DO NOT pull, tug or remove any leftover sutures, sutures should not be kept longer than noted above. Please call our office for more information.

Contact our office, your family doctor or go to your local Emergency room if you experience any of the following:

• Increased redness, swelling, pus, pain or warmth in or around the wound.
• Persistent bleeding
• Fever, chills or feeling unwell. 

If bleeding occurs, cover with gauze and apply strong pressure for 30 minutes. Elevate the area if possible.