What can you put on a surgical incision?

So, you’ve just had surgery and now you’re wondering what to put on your incision. Fear not, my friend! I am here to guide you through this perplexing journey.

Why is it important to care for a surgical incision?

Before we dive headfirst into the world of post-surgery wound care, let’s first address why it’s essential to take care of that precious slice in your skin. A surgical incision can easily become infected if left untreated or improperly cared for, leading to more significant health complications down the line. So, don’t be lazy about tending to your cut!

What should you avoid putting on a surgical incision?

Now let’s discuss what not to put on your freshly made hole in your flesh.

Perfumes: Just because your mini perfume bottle fits snugly in your purse doesn’t mean it should touch an open wound.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Despite popular belief and old wives’ tales, hydrogen peroxide only slows down the healing process by killing off valuable healthy tissue around the wound.
Vaseline/Petroleum Jelly: Although Vaseline has moisturizing properties that benefit dry skin types regularly dreaded among humans., petroleum jelly creates an oily barrier that interferes with proper air circulation over wounds therby creating room for bacterial buildup causing infections

Option 1: Antibiotics Ointments

Usually recommended by doctors after surgeries are antibiotic ointments. This topical treatment reduces bacteria levels and assists in speeding up recovery times while providing essential moisture.

An added bonus? These medications also include pain relievers like lidocaine which can make day-to-day life easier when dealing with discomfort from cuts or scrapes. Some common examples of antibiotics indicated or approved post-surgery include; Mupirocin (Bactroban), Neomycin Polymyxin (Neo-Polycin), Bacitracin, Erythromycin and Clindamycin Hydrochloride

Option 2: Sterile Bandages

A sterile bandage is a crucial component of proper post-surgery wound care. It serves as a protective barrier that prevents dirt and other bacteria from entering the incision site.

Make sure to replace your dressing every two days or immediately whenever it gets wet regardless of whether you see blood on it or not. Irrigliously asuming its clean defeats their purpose.

Note that surgical dressings vary based on content composition like gauze may be iodised, silver impregnated, cotton and so many others available in hospitals pharmacies.

Option 3: Honey Dressings

Heard of honey being used for medicinal purposes? Yes, we all have! Manuka honey masks are famous skincare treatments popularly utilized by social media enthusiasts but hardly would you know they can also help speed up wound healing especially with caeserean sections,wounds due to pressure ulcers at hips region etcetera..

This treatment has been prescribed since ancient times however recent research now backs this method’s effectiveness “Manuka is commonly recommended at between grades15+and 20+.

There are other varied supporting research papers on this natural wonder which makes for an excellent substitute if allergic to non-natural antibiotics cream options. Purchase those medical grade solutions , well-known brands sold over-the-counter include MediHoneyTM.

## Option 4 Aloe Vera Gel/Puree
While known for skin hydration due to its anti-inflammatory properties found useful for sunburns! This plant when applied topically heals minute cuts fast while leaving minimal scarring whatsoever . If purchasing online- Go specifically for OTC Products such as Fruit Of Earth’s pure aloe vera gel. Ensure no Extra ingredients aside the obvious

It comes particularly handy when wounds heal randomly, and you need a quick remedy.

Option 5 Saline Solution

Saline sprays are an excellent cleansing option for less severe incisions/wounds. For instance when removing sutures or other stitches. Splashing sterile saline solution on the site is a go-to method in hospitals to sanitize surgical equipment.

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it—five options of what to put on your freshly made surgery wound! Remember that caring for your incision properly is vital not only to avoid complications but also help speed up the healing process significantly (no one likes long-term struggling with wounds). Don’t hesitate to consult with medical professionals if any concerns arise as they will provide the best advice tailored to each individual case. Happy healing!