Dr. Barnett requests your assistance to ensure your safety during the dermatology surgery which you have scheduled. Please read and follow the following instructions:
- DO NOT TAKE MEDICATIONS CONTAINING ASPIRIN (e.g. Anacin, Bufferin, Ecotrin, or Excedrin), IBUPROFEN (e.g. Motrin or Advil), or NAPROXEN (Aleve) FOR 7 DAYS BEFORE YOUR SURGERY. These medications increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. If you have been prescribed one of these medications by a doctor, please check with your doctor before stopping. Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be taken safely for minor discomfort without increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Notify Dr. Barnett or staff if you are taking any anti-coagulants (blood thinning medications) such as Coumadin, Plavix, or Eloquis Some herbal preparations and vitamins also can cause more bleeding to occur in surgery, and it is our preference that you stop these 2 weeks before your surgical appointment. These include Vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic, ginseng, ginger, and fish oil supplements.
- Avoid alcohol or alcohol containing products for 7 days before surgery. Alcohol can also contribute to bleeding during and after your surgery.
- Notify Dr. Barnett if and why you take antibiotics before procedures, such as before dental procedures. In some circumstances we may want you to take antibiotics before your skin surgery as well.
- Your excision will be done in our office under local anesthesia. Most patients are able to drive themselves home after surgery. However, if you've had problems after procedures you've had done in the past, it may be advisable to bring a companion with you on the day of the surgery to drive you and make sure you get home safely after your surgery.
POST-OPERATIVE
It is recommended that you avoid any activities which may stretch your wound for one month after your surgery. A scar and redness after surgery is expected, and will decrease as healing progresses. It is normal for redness to last for as long as six to eighteen months. Everyone heals differently and sometimes the final scar can hardly be seen, while others become thick and tender.
You will need the following post-surgery for wound care:
- White Vinegar
- Steri-Strips or "butterfly tape" (available at your pharmacy)