POST-SURGICAL CARE

What to expect with your skin graft surgery

A skin graft is a surgical procedure where a piece of healthy skin is removed from one area of the body and transplanted to another area to help repair damaged or missing skin. To ensure proper healing and avoid complications, it’s important to follow the post-operative care instructions below.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s healing process is different, and the timeline for recovery after a skin graft can vary. If you have any concerns about your healing or the appearance of the graft area, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

2-4 Weeks

Recovery Time.

10 Things

to Know About.
YOUR POST-OP CHECKLIST

Your care plan to follow

  • KEEP THE GRAFT AREA CLEAN
    Keep the graft area clean and dry, and avoid touching the incisions unless instructed to do so. You are likely to have a dressing of some kind over the graft, one that is connected to negative pressure (PICO or KCI branded) or a dressing that is sewn on. The dressing should be left alone unless it alarms or you are told by the office to do something with it.

  • AVOID EXPOSING THE GRAFT TO MOISTURE
    Avoid exposing the graft and donor sire area to moisture as much as possible. If the area gets wet, pat it dry with a clean towel.

  • TAKE PAIN MEDICATION AS PRESCRIBED
    Your healthcare provider may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort following the procedure. Take the medication as directed and do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking it.

  • ELEVATE THE GRAFT AREA
    Elevating the graft area can help to reduce swelling and promote healing. Prop the area up with pillows when sitting or lying down.

  • AVOID STRENUOUS ACTIVITY
    Avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, exercise, and bending over for several weeks after the procedure.

  • FOLLOW A HEALTHY DIET
    Eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients and protein can help to support the healing process. Avoid drinking alcohol and limit caffeine, as these can increase swelling and delay healing.

  • AVOID SMOKING
    Smoking can slow down the healing process, increase the risk of complications, and affect the final result of your skin graft. If you smoke, quit at least two weeks before and two weeks after the procedure.

  • FOLLOW AFTER-CARE INSTRUCTIONS
    Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your healthcare provider, including instructions for using topical medications, avoiding certain skin care products, and resuming normal activities.

  • PROTECT THE GRAFT FROM SUN EXPOSURE
    Protect the graft area from sun exposure and extreme weather conditions by covering it with a bandage, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and using a high SPF sunscreen.

  • FOLLOW UP WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
    Schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider as directed to monitor your healing and address any concerns or questions you may have.