Properly Cleansing and Washing Your Incisions: Essential Tips
If your eyes become matted gently cleanse with a warm washcloth. You may shower 24 hours after face lift surgery only if you have a handheld shower and you can direct it at away from your face, keeping your head dry. 48 hours after face lift surgery, remove dressing if present, leaving steri-strips in place. You may now wash your face and hair. When shampooing and washing your hair, do it with your head and hair flung back, in a salon style fashion. Be gentle around the incisions but wash the area thoroughly. It is best to use a mild, unscented soap for washing your face.
When washing, and when drying, pat over the incisions, don’t wipe. Do not use the “hot” setting when blow-drying your hair, some skin areas may have lost sensation temporarily and you will not be able to feel yourself getting burned when too close or when using the hair dryer too long in one area. If you dye or bleach your hair, you may resume 1 month after face lift surgery. Do not make use of a stem room, sauna, bathe or submerge in a pool or whirlpool, for at least 3 weeks after face lift surgery.
Importance of Incision Cleansing for Optimal Healing
After undergoing surgery, proper care of your incisions is vital for optimal healing and minimizing the risk of infection. Cleansing your incisions using the correct techniques and precautions plays a crucial role in the recovery process. Here are some essential tips for effectively washing and cleansing your incisions.
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
First and foremost, it is essential to follow your surgeon’s specific instructions regarding incision care. They will provide you with detailed guidelines tailored to your unique situation. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for the best possible outcome.
Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before beginning the cleansing process, gather the necessary supplies. You will need clean, lukewarm water, mild antibacterial soap, sterile gauze pads or a clean cloth, and a towel. Ensure that your hands are clean and dry before starting the procedure.
Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Before touching your incisions, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This step is crucial to prevent introducing any bacteria or contaminants to the incision site.
Gently Cleanse the Incisions
Dampen the sterile gauze pad or clean cloth with lukewarm water and apply a small amount of mild antibacterial soap to create a lather. Gently cleanse the incisions by lightly patting or wiping the area. Avoid rubbing the incisions vigorously, as it can irritate the delicate tissue.
Rinse and Pat Dry
After cleansing the incisions, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Ensure that all soap is completely washed away. Once rinsed, gently pat the incisions dry with a clean towel or allow them to air dry.
Follow the Recommended Frequency
Your surgeon will provide guidance on how often to cleanse your incisions. Typically, it is recommended to clean the incisions at least once or twice a day, following the instructions provided. Avoid over-cleansing, as it can disrupt the natural healing process.
Observe Signs of Infection
While caring for your incisions, it’s important to monitor for any signs of infection. These may include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or a foul odor. If you notice any concerning signs, contact your surgeon immediately.
Protect the Incisions
After cleansing, ensure that the incisions remain protected. Follow your surgeon’s advice regarding the application of dressings, ointments, or any additional precautions to keep the area clean and prevent contamination.
Be Gentle and Patient
Throughout the healing process, it’s crucial to be gentle and patient with your incisions. Avoid activities that may strain or disrupt the incisions, such as heavy lifting or excessive stretching. Follow your surgeon’s guidance on physical restrictions and gradually resume normal activities as advised.
In conclusion, proper cleansing and washing of your incisions are vital for optimal healing after surgery. By following your surgeon’s instructions, gathering the necessary supplies, and adopting gentle cleansing techniques, you can promote a clean and healthy incision site. Remember to observe signs of infection and seek medical attention if needed. With diligent care, you can contribute to a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.
Check out our gallery of before and after images for face lift here.
