Mole Removal Recovery Tips
Posted on: 17 June 2020
Procedures that involve removing moles tend to be minimally invasive and have a pretty simple recovery. However, with any kind of procedure, it is important that you follow the aftercare instructions that your physician provides you to ensure that you heal properly. If you are visiting a dermatologist to have a mole removed, here are a few tips that will help you recover effectively.
Keep the Site Clean
To prevent an infection from occurring, your dermatologist will recommend that you keep the removal site clean. If your job requires you to work in an area that is exposed to dust, dirt, or debris, you may need to wear a protective cover to make certain that nothing gets into the wound during the healing process. Until your physician has instructed you to do so, you should not use soap or water to wash the area.
Use Proper Bandaging
As a general rule, the bandaging should not be removed for one to two weeks after the mole has been removed. Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how frequently the bandages need to be changed, what types of bandages you should use, and how long you should wear the bandages. Make sure to follow these instructions carefully.
Apply Ointments as Needed
Depending on the kind of suture that is used by your dermatologist to close the skin once the mole has been successfully removed, antibiotic ointment may need to be applied regularly to help the healing process. Liquid sutures will require more moisture than thread sutures, so you may need to apply ointment more frequently with them.
Don't Pick the Scab
Within a week or two of having the mole removed, the wound is going to begin scabbing over—unless it was stitched using conventional sutures. To help minimize the risk of scarring, it is imperative that you let the scab fall off on its own and avoid picking at it.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments
To ensure that the incision heals properly, your dermatologist is going to schedule a follow-up appointment. If you had traditional sutures, an appointment will be necessary to remove the stitches. Make sure to schedule your appointment on time and attend this appointment.
When you have a mole that needs to be removed, you want to ensure that you are able to recover and heal properly. The aforementioned tips will help you do just that. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment for mole removal, contact a dermatologist at a clinic like MOD Dermatology.
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