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Keep the area absolutely dry for 24 to 48 hours. After 24 to 48 hours you may shower.
Remove the bandage and clean the wound with mild soap and water. Try to clean off crusts and debris. After one week, you may rub the surface of the wound fairly aggressively (a small amount of bleeding is normal when you do this). It is important not to allow a scab to form. This will slow down the healing process. Dry the area with a clean Q-tip or gauze.
Apply a layer of Bacitracin or Vaseline ointment to the wound area only.
Cut a piece of Telfa (or any non-stick dressing) to fit just over the wound and secure it with paper tape. If the wound is small, you may use a Band-Aid.
You should continue daily wound care and keep a bandage on until new skin has grown over the entire wound.

Post-Operative Instructions

Activity: Avoid all strenuous activities and exercises for two days.
Discomfort: Do not use aspirin, aspirin-containing products, ibuprofen, or alcohol for the first five days after surgery. If you experience discomfort, you may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Extra Strength Tylenol, one to two tablets every four hours.
Bleeding: If bleeding occurs, do not remove the bandage. Apply continuous firm pressure with gauze for 15 to 20 minutes. If the bleeding persists, repeat the pressure for an additional 20 minutes. If bleeding continues, you should notify us and come in immediately. If the office is closed, go to your nearest emergency room. PLEASE do not go to the emergency room without attempting to contact us first. Please notify us of any bleeding, as you will most likely need to have a bandage change.
Infection: Some soreness and redness is expected. If the area becomes very sore, red, and/or hot to the touch, or you have a fever, please notify us. It is possible the area may be infected.
Bruising and Swelling: There may be a bruise near or below the site. This is normal and it could last up to a week. Swelling is also normal. It usually increases for 24 to 48 hours and then begins to improve. Please call us if the swelling reappears or worsens.