It is important to realize that the healing process is not usually complete for about three weeks. It is normal to experience some swelling, minor redness and minor pain or discomfort around the area for several days after the biopsy. Occasionally a clear drainage may be present. Bacitracin ointment can be applied after the area is cleansed with warm, soapy water if it makes the area more comfortable or if there is a minimal sign of infection. If there is significant drainage, significant pain, redness or swelling, you should call the office promptly, as we may need to either call in an antibiotic or ask you to return to the office for an evaluation. If significant bleeding occurs either spontaneously or if the site has been accidentally bumped, we recommend you apply firm pressure on the area with a fingertip using a tissue or gauze square for ten minutes. If the bleeding does not stop after pressure has been applied for ten minutes, you should call the office .
You have just had one or more benign lesions destroyed by freezing with liquid nitrogen. It is important to realize that the healing is not usually complete for approximately three weeks. It is normal for the area that has been frozen to swell and occasionally blister and drain. Many times the blister may be tinged with blood and may appear red, purple, blue, or black. All of this is considered part of the normal healing process. It is normal to experience mild pain and tenderness in the areas that were frozen during the healing process. If there is a minimal sign of infection or if the lesions are more comfortable because of the application of an ointment, Bacitracin Ointment may be applied twice daily after the lesion has been cleaned with warm soapy water. In most cases it is fine to bathe or shower, although care must be taken not to scrub vigorously over the lesions. Advil or Tylenol can be used for the relief of any minor pain that develops. Both of these are available over the counter. If the pain is severe, pusey drainage develops, or you have any other sign of infection, please call the office immediately. We may need to recheck the area or call in an antibiotic.
After your treatment, you should avoid exposure to sunlight or bright light for at least 48 hours. It is important to realize that the healing is not usually complete for approximately three weeks and spots may become swollen and peel.
Begin applying cool compresses to the treated areas to minimize swelling and alleviate discomfort. Swelling will be most evident around the eyes and is usually more prominent in the morning. This swelling can last up to 2-3 days after treatment.
Apply over-the-counter Hydrocortisone 1% ointment/cream or Vaseline to the treatment areas 1-2 times daily.
Your skin will feel dry and tightened, a good moisturizer should be used daily, preferably with SPF 30.
These care instructions are to serve as guides only, if you are experiencing any problems, please call our office at (317) 329-7050.