Caring for Your Incision Site After Body Surgery: Dos and Don'ts

Don’ts of Incision Care After Body Surgery

• Do not pick at scabs or peel off bandages

Picking at scabs or peeling off bandages can delay the healing process and increase your risk of infection. Let any scabs fall off naturally, and avoid touching your incision site with your fingers.

• Avoid strenuous activities

While it may be tempting to resume physical activity as soon as possible, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions on what activities to avoid. Strenuous activities like heavy lifting or high-impact exercises should be avoided until your surgeon clears you to resume them.

• Do not smoke

Smoking can impede the healing process by reducing blood flow to your incision site. If you smoke, try to quit before your surgery or at least reduce your smoking as much as possible during your recovery period.

• Do not drink alcohol

Alcohol can also slow down the healing process by interfering with your body’s ability to fight infections. It’s best to avoid drinking alcohol until your surgeon clears you to do so.

In summary, proper incision care is crucial for a successful recovery after body surgery. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this article, you can promote optimal wound healing and reduce the risk of complications. Remember to keep your incision site clean and dry, monitor for signs of infection, follow your surgeon’s medication instructions, eat a healthy diet, and avoid picking at scabs, strenuous activities, smoking, and drinking alcohol. If you have any concerns about your incision site or recovery process, do not hesitate to contact your surgeon for further guidance.