Post-Surgery FAQs
Surgical Wound Aftercare
At Keystone Dermatology, we prioritize patient satisfaction. This page provides our professional guidelines and advice to help you start your post-surgery care and routine. If you have any questions or concerns about your post-operative care, please feel free to reach out to us.
Follow Up Appointments Post-Surgery
Typically, a single follow-up visit is sufficient to assess the healing of the surgical site or to remove the dressings. After this, you can return to your referring physician for regular check-ups. Annual skin examinations are crucial for life, as having had one skin cancer increases your risk of developing another.
It's recommended that your referring dermatologist checks your skin at least once a year for the next four years, both to monitor the treated area and to detect any new skin cancers.
How to Protect Yourself Post-Surgery
The most effective way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid harmful UV rays from the sun. Even if your skin tans easily, sun exposure can still lead to skin cancer by damaging the genes that regulate cell growth and weakening the immune system's ability to control early cancer cells.
To reduce your risk, consider the following precautions:
Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that offers both UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreens with stabilizers are particularly effective.
Limit sun exposure during peak hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Remember that UV rays can penetrate clouds, so protection is necessary even on overcast days.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy outdoor activities without significantly altering your lifestyle.
You can purchase sunscreen and a variety of medical-grade skincare products online by visiting the QualDerm Partners' online store.
How To Care For Wounds Post-Surgery
Possible Complications
Slight post-surgery complications may arise. Please note: severe pain or bleeding is NOT common. Call our office immediately, or contact Dr. Perlis on his cell if it is after business hours.
Leave the bandage in place
Use rolled up gauze or a clean cloth to apply direct pressure over the bandage for 20 minutes.
Reapply pressure for an additional 20 minutes if necessary
Call the office or Dr. Perlis if pressure fails to stop the bleeding
Use additional gauze and tape to reinforce bandage once the bleeding stopped.
Pain:
Post operative pain should slowly get better, never worse.
A severe increase in pain may indicate a problem. Call the office if this occurs.