Advice Following Curettage Or Shave
The surgery you have had today involves shaving or scraping (curetting) the surface of the skin. Cautery has been used to stop any bleeding. This will have left an area of crust, which may or may not be covered with a plaster.
24-48 Hours:
- During this time it is important to keep the area clean and dry.
- If bleeding occurs, which is unlikely, apply firm pressure to the area for 10 minutes.
48 Hours:
- If a plaster has been applied now is the time to remove it.
- The area can now be cleaned as normal.
- A further plaster can be applied if the wound is still oozing until a dry scab has formed (usually within 4-5 days)
What is normal:
- The first couple of days your wound may be tender and may bleed slightly when you clean it.
- There may be swelling and bruising around the wound, especially if near the eyes.
- The area around the wound may be numb for many weeks/months
- You may experience episodic sharp pains as the area heals.
Seek medical help if:
- You have bleeding which will not stop after applying pressure and ice.
- You have excessive (or increasing) pain.
- You have signs of an infection such as a raised temperature, redness, swelling or a foul-smelling discharge from the wound.
In office hours please phone the Dermatology Secretaries on 0203 315 4007. Otherwise speak to your GP/Practice Nurse or attend the nearest A&E or Minor Injuries Treatment unit.
We would like to be kept informed if you have problems with your wound.
Follow up:
You will be informed about any necessary follow-up by either a telephone call or by letter if you do not already have an appointment.
Please note that we do not give results over the telephone.