1. Continue to apply Vaseline or Aquaphor on wound and cover with a bandage until well healed.
2. Massage the area with pressure beginning a week after suture removal, unless still tender to the touch or pressure. Massage 2-3 times daily for 5-10 minutes for a few weeks. This helps break down the scar tissue.
3. Scar Away Silicone Gel or Silicone Pads (optional), can help with scar reduction and can be purchased over the counter. Follow the directions on the box for application instructions.
4. Return to the clinic for skin checks every 6-12 months or sooner if instructed by your provider, or if something changes that is concerning to you.
5. Occasionally, some of the deeper stitches that normally dissolve on the own work their way to the surface; these are called "spitting sutures". This will dissolve with warm compresses or can be removed in the office. It may appear as a pimple like lesion or sometimes patients will feel a sharp or pointed spot along their incision line.
Please call our office with any questions at 970-247-1970