HEALING AFTER SKIN CANCER EXCISION

Recovery Plan

Excision of skin cancer is a type of surgery carried out to remove a cancerous tumor from your skin. Skin cancer occurs as a result of uncontrolled growth and the development of abnormal cells in the skin. There are several types of skin cancers, but the three most common are the following: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

After skin excision, you may have stitches until your wound heals. This might result in a scar that should fade as the wound heals. The rate at which cancer wound heals mostly depends on its size. Generally, most wounds take an average of 1-3 weeks to heal.

Dr. Krathen will give comprehensive advice on things your body can handle and things to avoid. With this care sheet, we have discussed essential ideas that can help you in taking care of your skin to speed the healing process. Even though different people heal at a different pace, following these guides, step by step will ultimately help you.

Measures to Take After Skin Cancer Excision

1. Follow Dr. Krathen’s instructions – it is critical to adhere to his guidance for post-operation care strictly.
2. Limit activities – it is essential to limit the level of activities for about two weeks after surgery to avoid stretching the wound.
3. Keep the wound moist – dry wounds heal slower and are at higher risk of scarring. Therefore, it is crucial to keep your wound moist by using neutral ointment.
4. Protect the operated skin part from direct sun. This is important because the sun produces UV waves that are capable of darkening or discoloring the scar. As it might be challenging to keep out of the sun completely, Dr. Krathen may encourage the use of sunscreen as well as keep the skin operated area covered.

Home Care Treatment

Activities

• If you have stitches, consult Dr. Krathen when you should wait before resuming to general activities.

Medicines

• Dr. Krathen will advise if and when you can start taking your medications as well as give instructions on using new drugs.
• If there are drugs you were previously using, such as blood thinners, be sure to speak to Dr. Krathen about it. He will advise on whether to continue with the drugs or not. In general, one should continue prescribed blood thinners before, during, and after skin cancer surgery.

How to Take Care of the Wound?

• You will have a dressing on your wound, which protects it and enhances healing. Dr. Krathen will tell advise on healthy ways of taking care of it.
• If you have stitches, Dr. Krathen will give you an appointment to have them removed.
• Wash the wound daily with fresh warm, soapy water, and pat the wound dry. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

If you have any questions about skin cancer excision, schedule a consultation with Dr. Krathen today!

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