Mohs Center of Richmond Dermatology
STAPLE REMOVAL: ONE WEEK
Bandage Care
- Please clean the area at home daily following the staple removal.
- Use saline to clean the area and dry the wound with a Q-tip or clean gauze pad.
- Apply Vaseline and nonstick gauze pad to incision site.
- Continue daily bandaging for three days following staple removal, as listed above
Massaging of Scar Tissue/Healing Expectations
- Begin to massage the area 6-8 weeks after surgery. Massaging the area will help the scar soften and fade
quicker. To massage, apply pressure directly and firmly over the scar with clean fingertips and move in a
circular motion. Massage the area 10 times a day for 30 seconds. - Approximately 6-8 weeks after surgery, it is not uncommon to see the formation of “tender pimple-like”
bump along the scar. This is a normal process of the sutures dissolving and wound healing. Do not pick or
squeeze, this will resolve on its own. Should one break open producing a small amount of drainage, apply
Vaseline ointment a few times a day until the wound is completely healed. - Numbness in the surgical area is expected. It can take up to 12-18 months for the feeling to return to
normal. During this time sensations of itchiness, tingling and occasional sharp pains might be noted.
Mohs Center of Richmond Dermatology
Possible Complications/When to Call
- Signs/symptoms of infection:
- Redness
- Warmth to the touch
- Red streaking around surgical site
- Increased pain
- Swelling
- Fever
- Chills
- Foul smelling drainage
Questions/Concerns contact our office (hours 7:30-4:00pm):
804-538-1033 opt. 3
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY:
Dr. Wallace’s cellphone: 703-431-9519
Please follow up in person in _______________
Please send photo to followup@richmonddermlaser.com in
___________________
o Include first and last name with date of birth
o You will receive a confirmation email once the photos are received