Patient Education

Wound/Incision

Care

Post Operative Instructions

At Alabama ENT, getting your life back to normal quickly and safely is our chief concern. Much of that will depend on how closely you follow the instructions in this handout. So, please read over this brief pamphlet, and make sure that what it contains is clear to you. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon.

AFTER SUGERY : At Home Care…

DRESSING: If you had a dressing applied to your incision or wound, your surgeon will tell you which of the three options below you should follow.
- Option #1: Do not remove your dressing. The doctor will remove it in the office when you come-in for your follow-up visit.
- Option #2: Remove your dressing on the day after your surgery specified by your surgeon.
- Option #3: Begin following the instructions below for “Wound Care” beginning the day your dressing is removed.

WOUND CARE: If you didn’t have a dressing applied to your incision or wound, follow the instructions below.

Roll a cotton swab soaked in peroxide over the incision line to wet the wound. Gently scrub in the same direction as the incision, until all dried blood is removed.
Next, spread a thin layer of an antibacterial ointment or cream (Polysporin, Bactroban, or Bacitracin) over the wound.
Repeat 2 times daily.

PERSONAL HYGIENE:
- Bathing: After the dressing is removed, it is OK to get the wound wet. Pat the wound gently to dry it, but don’t rub it. Apply antibiotic ointment after drying.
- Steri-Strips: If your incision has Steri-Strips, do not disturb them unless directed by your surgeon. However, if they come off, don’t be concerned.
- Sleeping & Resting: Keep your head elevated while reclining and/or sleeping. A wedge reading pillow or recliner is ideal, especially if there is significant bruising or swelling.

Follow-up Appointments…

Our office may call you 1-2 days after your surgery to schedule a follow-up appointment, if necessary. The number of appointments varies with the surgery, and will be scheduled as needed. Do not miss your follow-up appointments. They are vital in monitoring your progress and recovery.

Call the Office if…

Pain: Increases despite pain medication.
Fever: Over 101 degrees.
Bleeding or Swelling: Prolonged bleeding or excessive swelling.
Redness/Tenderness: Around the wound area.
Nausea: Vomiting or nausea despite prescribed medication.
Drainage: Yellow or green drainage from the wound.
Wound Separation: The edges of the wound pulling away from one another.

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