The postoperative period will depend on the type of surgery performed, its complexity, and each patient’s overall condition.
Before discharge, the medical team will provide clear and detailed information about:
These instructions may be provided in writing and will be explained clearly to the patient and their companions.
While most patients recover favorably, it is important to know when to seek medical advice.
It is recommended to contact the medical team or go to an emergency department if any of the following symptoms appear:
If you have any doubts, even if the symptom is not on this list, it is better to consult. Early communication makes it possible to resolve simple situations and provides reassurance to the patient and their family.
The medical and administrative team will remain available to support you throughout the entire recovery process, answer questions, and guide you with any concerns.
The goal is for the postoperative period to proceed in the safest, most orderly, and most comfortable way possible, promoting proper recovery and a gradual return to usual activities.
Every surgical wound is different. Its size, location, and closure method depend on the type of surgery performed and each patient’s characteristics. For this reason, at the time of discharge your surgeon will explain in a personalized way how to care for your wound and which specific instructions you must follow.
Below are general recommendations that usually apply in most cases, unless the medical team indicates otherwise.
In general, surgical wounds can get wet.
No special washes or complex care are necessary, unless specifically indicated by a physician.
Unlike a shower, activities involving prolonged immersion in water, such as:
usually require a longer waiting period before being authorized.
This is because pool or sea water can increase the risk of infection or affect proper healing. The recommended time to resume these activities varies depending on the type of surgery and the wound’s evolution, so it will be indicated individually by the medical team during postoperative follow-up visits.
Depending on the type of wound:
The medical or nursing team will clearly explain how to proceed in each case. If you have doubts, it is important not to remove bandages without consulting.
In most cases, it is not necessary to apply antiseptics to the wound (alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, povidone-iodine, or other similar products).
Unnecessary use of these products can irritate the skin and delay healing. For this reason, unless expressly indicated by the surgeon, it is not recommended to apply any product to the wound.
Scarring depends on multiple factors, but some general care helps achieve better aesthetic results.
AVOID TENSION ON THE WOUND
SUN PROTECTION
Sun exposure is one of the most important factors in how a scar evolves.
CREAMS AND SCAR PRODUCTS
Suture removal is not always necessary.
The timing of removal varies depending on the surgery, the location of the wound, and individual healing.
It is important to clarify that, despite a common myth, suture removal is usually not painful. It may cause mild discomfort, but it is generally quick and well tolerated.
The medical team will support the patient throughout the entire postoperative process, not only in relation to the wound, but also in all aspects of recovery.
This follow-up may include:
The goal is to detect any issues early, resolve questions, and provide reassurance during recovery.
During the first few days, it is normal to observe:
It is recommended to consult if you notice:
If you have any doubts, even if the symptom is not on this list, it is preferable to consult the medical team.
