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After Care
Taking care of your healing wounds
Showers not baths!
Most wounds have ‘sealed’ themselves after 2-3 days allowing you to get them wet in a shower. You may still have some shower proof dressings on for the first week or so. Do NOT SOAK in a bath or go swimming until your wounds are fully healed (usually minimum of 10-14 days). The nurse or I will give you the all clear. Baths are actually not very hygienic for wounds so shower instead!
Physical activity
You need to avoid excessive stretching or rubbing of your wounds during the initial healing period (first two weeks). As a guide, gentle exercise like walking over the first 7-10 days is to be encouraged. You can then build up to moderate exercise (cycle machine, longer or strenuous walks) up to the fourth week. High impact exercise is usually achievable at six weeks. These rules for exercise are similar for sexual activity. Driving should be avoided until you are pain free and is usually for two weeks.
Sun
Avoid sun or tanning lamps on new scars for 6-12 months. The scars can be very sensitive and can darken. Cover them or use a good sun block.
Massage or silicone tape
Scars vary from person to person. Some of you will form thin white scars quickly while others will get thicker red scars that take many months to flatten. ONCE healed massaging your scars with moisturiser once or twice a day is helpful. For tummy and breast scars there is also the option of wearing silicone tape. It can be very helpful but does not make a difference for all patients. If used this needs to be worn as much as possible for 3-4 months to be of value. Ask the cosmetic nurse about wearing silicone tape if you feel you would be interested in this.
