• Please remove the dressing or bandage 24-48 hours following the procedure. Once the bandage has been removed, you may begin getting the area wet from a shower. 

• Begin twice-a-day (morning and evening) cleansing of the wound, using mild soap and water. Do this using a Q-tip or clean gauze. Gently cleanse to remove any dried blood or excess crusting; rinse well with tap water. Do this until there is no fresh or dried blood. Continue cleansing with a mild soap or water until the wound is completely healed. 

• Adequate cleansing will prevent a thick scab from forming. This is important since a thick scab is destructive to good wound healing and may lead to a more noticeable scar. 

• After cleansing, apply a coating of Aquaphor, Vaseline, CeraVe Healing Ointment or petroleum jelly. We recommend to avoid Neosporin, as many of our patients have allergies to it! Keep ointment and a bandage on the wound at all times until the wound is healed.

• A shave excision may take four to six weeks to heal completely, depending on the size of the wound and its location. Continue cleansing the wound with soap and water and applying Aquaphor, Vaseline, CeraVe Healing Ointment or petroleum jelly until your wound is healed. 

• Allow any scab formation to fall out on it own. Do not pick at it. 

• Avoid hot tubs, swimming, or taking a bath for two weeks following surgery. 

When to call the Doctor 

Call The Dermatology Specialists if you notice any of the following: 

• Severe inflammation (spreading redness, tenderness, swelling, or warmth that last more than 24 hours.

• Red streaks near the wound

• Increased bloody drainage 

• Green or yellow drainage, or a foul smell coming from the wound 

• A fever that continues for more than 24 hours. 

If you have any questions or concerns, call our office at (212) 385-3700. We are available for in-person, walk-in, or telemedicine appointments!