Caring For Your Skin After Receiving An Operation To Remove A Cancerous Growth
If you recently had skin cancer and were operated on to remove a cancerous growth from one of your cheeks, the following tips will assist with caring for the wound to promote healing and keep pain to a minimum. Once your skin has healed, you may be a candidate for reconstructive surgery to minimize scarring if you are not completely satisfied with your appearance.
Keep The Injured Area Bandaged And Apply Ointment As Directed
After your surgery, pay close attention to aftercare instructions that your doctor provides you with. Learn how to remove the current bandage and apply ointment to the wound. While at home, follow the doctor's advice and cover your hands with sterile gloves before touching your face.
Sit down in a well-lit room and gaze into a magnifying mirror as you remove the current dressing. Use a cotton swab to apply the proper amount of ointment to the wound, and apply a fresh dressing over the affected area. Use strips of sterile medical tape to secure the dressing.
Allow Your Skin To Breathe Occasionally
Ask your doctor how often you should allow your facial skin to breathe, and make a point of removing the bandage from your face when you will be relaxing indoors. After removing the bandage from your face, use a soft cloth that has been slightly dampened with a non-irritating facial cleanser and dab the cloth against the scarred skin. Rinse your cheek with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean, soft cloth. Lie down in a well-ventilated room for several minutes. Afterward, apply the ointment and a fresh dressing to the wound.
Avoid Sunlight And Harsh Chemicals
Avoid exposing your skin to sunlight for extended amounts of time. On sunny days when you need to head out of your home, apply a light coating of sunscreen to your face and wear a wide-brimmed hat and pair of sunglasses. Use a product that does not contain harsh chemicals so that the wound on your face is not irritated. If possible, postpone outdoor activities until later in the day. Do not apply cosmetics or creams that contain heavy perfumes and dyes to your face.
After your skin has healed properly, your doctor can meet with you to discuss reconstructive procedures if you are interested in learning about them. However, be sure to contact your doctor immediately during the healing process if pain in your facial area is severe or if you notice that there is pus or a foul odor coming from the wound.
If you're interested in finding out more, visit a site such as http://www.JGattiMD.com.
