| Split Earlobe Repair Discharge Instructions
Pain The numbness that you feel as a result of the local anesthesia will gradually go away in a few hours. After that time, you may have some mild pain. You may take a nonprescription, non-aspirin pain medication (such as Tylenol or Motrin) which can be purchased at a drug store. Follow the directions on the label.
Surgical Site
Keep the incision dry for the next_____ days. If you shower or take a tub bath, protect the incision from water.
If so instructed by your surgeon, you should apply a thin coat of Bacitracin ointment to the incision line (front and back) two to three times a day for the next 3-4 days.
Diet
You may resume your normal diet after the procedure.
Follow-up visit
You will need to return to the clinic
on ______________
at ______________
The sutures will be removed at this time. You will also need to see your surgeon a month after the procedure. You should not have you ear(s) repierced for 6 months or until your surgeon says it is all right to have the earlobe pierced.
Contingencies
Notify your surgeon if you have any of the following:
temperature greater than 101ø F.
a foul-smelling discharge from the incision or increasing redness or warmth at the incision.
significant or increasing bleeding.
any other questions or problems.
You can reach your surgeon by calling the Plastic Surgery Clinic during duty hours at (202)782-6560; after duty hours, call the WRAMC emergency room at (202) 782-1199. If you feel the problem requires urgent attention (such as severe bleeding), call for an ambulance to take you to the nearest emergency room. |