After surgery, the skin begins the healing process. This varies according to the type of procedure performed and the person’s history.

However, there are general recommendations you can follow to help prevent infection.

What you need to know about surgical wound care:

• Good cleaning is essential.
• Before touching the wound or changing the gauze pads, you should wash your hands with soap and water. Use a clean towel.
• You should also clean the wound with soap and water daily while bathing and dry it carefully.
• Avoid using alcohol, peroxide, iodine, and soaps with antibacterial chemicals, as they can damage wound tissue and delay wound healing.
• Apply only as indicated by the doctor; do not use lotions that have not been prescribed.

Recognize the warning signs:

• Swelling and/or redness.
• Local temperature rise.
• Secretion of any kind.
• Persistent pain.
• Hematoma.
• Bleeding.
• Fever.

If you have at least one of these signs you should tell your doctor.