As You Heal

As You Heal

NORMAL SYMPTOMS

• SWELLING AND BRUISING: Moderate swelling and bruising are normal after any surgery. Severe swelling and bruising may indicate bleeding or possible infection.
• DISCOMFORT AND PAIN: Mild to moderate discomfort or pain is normal after any surgery. If the pain becomes severe and is not relieved by pain medication, please call us at (706) 494-7700.

• CRUSTING ALONG THE INCISION LINES: We usually treat this with antibiotic ointment to decrease crusting.

• NUMBNESS: Small sensory nerves to the skin surface are occasionally cut when the incision is made or interrupted by undermining of the skin during surgery. The sensation in those areas gradually returns-usually within 2 or 3 months as the nerve endings heal spontaneously.

• ITCHING: Itching and occasional small shooting electrical sensations within the skin frequently occur as the nerve endings heal. Ice, skin moisturizers, and massages are frequently helpful. These symptoms are common during the recovery period.

• REDNESS OF SCARS: All new scars are red, dark pink, or purple. Scars on the face usually fade within 3 to 6 months. Scars on the breasts or body may take a year or longer to fade completely.

COMMON RISKS

• HEMATOMA: Small collections of blood under the skin are usually allowed to absorb spontaneously. Larger hematomas may require aspiration, drainage, or even surgical removal to achieve the best result.

• INFLAMMATION AND INFECTION: A superficial infection may require antibiotic ointment. Deeper infections are treated with antibiotics. Development of an abscess usually requires drainage.