What should I expect during my giant nevi removal recovery?

Following surgery to remove a congenital nevus, gauze dressings or other types of bandages may be applied to the incisions. An elastic bandage or immobilizer may be used to help minimize swelling and prevent excessive movement at the surgery site during the healing process.

Small, thin tubes may need to be placed temporarily under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect from beneath the surgery site.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for the surgical site(s) following surgery
• Medications to apply or take orally to minimize pain, aid healing and reduce the risk of infection
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or with overall health
• Any activity restrictions necessary to ensure proper healing of the incisions
• When to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during the individual recovery period.

• What medication will be prescribed after surgery?
• Will there be dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
• Will there be drains? For how long?
• When can bathing or showering be resumed?
• When can normal activity and exercise be resumed?
• When is it necessary to return for follow-up care?

Post-surgical discomfort can be controlled with pain medication. Depending on the surgical technique used, sutures may need to be removed from the skin following surgery. Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling resolves. Incision site scars will mature and fade over many months.

After surgery, diligent sun protection is essential to prevent the formation of irregular scars. It is important to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.