Post-Surgery Chin Healing: Managing Fluid and Redness After Stitches

One week after the chin sutures were removed, there is still a small amount of fluid and slight redness?

Hello Doctor, I had a car accident recently, resulting in a 3 cm laceration on the right lower corner of my chin (with six needle punctures above and below).
The wound is somewhat deep (it felt like it was stapled 2 to 3 times).
I had the stitches removed nine days later, and on the same day, I applied cosmetic tape as instructed by the doctor, who advised me to switch to scar gel after five days.
Today is the sixth day after the stitches were removed, but there are still clots of serous fluid (red-yellow clots) at the wound site, and it still hurts a bit.
I used a cotton swab to clean it, but the surrounding skin has peeled off a layer, and the serous fluid clots are still there.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Should I continue to clean until there is no serous fluid left and then apply the scar gel? 2.
Or should I avoid aggressive cleaning and just keep the cosmetic tape on until there is no red or yellow fluid before switching to the gel? 3.
Is it normal to still have red-yellow fluid a week after the stitches were removed? 4.
The scar line is still visible after the stitches were removed; what measures can I take to remedy this? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.
I am really worried about the visible scar, especially since I have a tendency to develop keloids.

Xiao En, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/17

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

1.
Scar care should only begin once the wound has healed.

2.
If there is still exudate, it indicates that the wound has not yet healed, and care should be based on wound management principles.

3.
For scar care, silicone gel sheets or scar gels can be used.

Reply Date: 2018/06/17

More Info

Post-surgery healing, especially after an injury like yours, can be a complex process that requires careful management to ensure optimal recovery and minimize scarring. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some common post-operative symptoms, including the presence of fluid and redness around the incision site. Here are some insights and recommendations regarding your concerns:
1. Managing Fluid Accumulation: It is not uncommon for some fluid accumulation (seroma) to occur after surgery, especially in deeper wounds. The presence of red-yellow fluid is indicative of this. While it is important to keep the area clean, you should avoid aggressive cleaning that could irritate the wound further. Instead, gently clean the area with a sterile saline solution or as directed by your physician. If the fluid does not resolve or if you notice increased redness, swelling, or pain, it is crucial to consult your doctor.

2. Use of Scar Gel: You mentioned that your doctor advised you to apply scar gel after five days post-stitch removal. It is generally recommended to wait until the wound is fully closed and free of any fluid or crust before applying such products. If there is still significant fluid present, it may be best to wait until the area is completely dry and healed before applying the gel. This will help ensure that the gel can penetrate the skin effectively and provide the intended benefits.

3. Duration of Fluid Presence: It is not unusual for some fluid to persist for a week or more after stitches are removed, especially if the wound was deeper or if there was significant tissue manipulation during surgery. However, if the fluid continues to accumulate or if you experience worsening symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider may need to assess the wound for any signs of infection or other complications.

4. Addressing Scarring: Given your concern about hypertrophic scarring (keloids), it is wise to be proactive. Once the wound is fully healed, you can consider treatments such as silicone gel sheets, pressure therapy, or even laser treatments, depending on the severity of the scarring. Additionally, protecting the area from sun exposure is crucial, as UV rays can exacerbate scarring. Always consult with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon specializing in scar management for personalized recommendations.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential. They can monitor the healing process, assess for any complications, and provide tailored advice based on your specific situation. If you notice any signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge), or if the pain worsens, do not hesitate to contact your doctor immediately.

In summary, while some fluid and redness post-surgery can be normal, it is essential to manage the area gently and monitor for any signs of complications. Following your doctor's instructions regarding wound care and scar management will be crucial in achieving the best possible outcome. Remember, healing takes time, and being patient with your body is key. If you have any concerns or if symptoms persist, always reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Similar Q&A

Post-Stitch Care: Managing Wound Healing After Surgery

Two weeks ago, I cut the palm of my hand with a utility knife and received three stitches. Today marks five days since the stitches were removed, but the epidermis does not appear to have healed. It looks red and white and continues to ooze (not in a dry state), and I also experi...

Dr. Lü Mingchuan reply Plastic Surgery
Wound assessment can be performed in an outpatient setting.

Post-Surgery Care: Tips for Healing After Stitch Removal

Hello Doctor: Two weeks ago, I had an accident and received over ten stitches on my face. The stitches have been removed, and I am currently using a silicone gel (3M). The doctor advised me to use it for 3-6 months for better healing. I would like to ask if going outside with the...

Dr. Li Junde reply Surgery
Ms. Ivory's surgical wounds or skin incisions are prone to hyperpigmentation when exposed to direct sunlight. Applying silicone gel sheets can help reduce wound pressure and minimize the occurrence of hypertrophic scars. However, if using transparent adhesive bandages, sunli...

Managing Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Heat Application and Bleeding Concerns

Hello Doctor, on March 1 (Tuesday), I had my upper and lower right wisdom teeth extracted. The upper wisdom tooth was straight and easier to remove, while the lower wisdom tooth was horizontal and required surgery. The lower wound was stitched, and the upper wound had one stitch....

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry
Dear netizen, based on your description, experiencing bleeding on the third day after wisdom tooth extraction following a warm compress is not uncommon. Generally, after wisdom tooth extraction, there may be localized swelling for several days to a week. It is advisable to monito...

Post-Circumcision Concerns: Managing Excessive Drainage and Care Tips

Dear Dr. Du, I have been following up on my condition after undergoing laser circumcision surgery, which was performed four days ago. On the first night, it seems that nocturnal erections caused some tension on the wound. When the surgeon changed the elastic bandage the next day...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If the wound is healing well without any unusual redness, swelling, heat, or pain, it can be managed at home. However, if any of the above symptoms occur, or if the wound opens significantly, a follow-up visit is necessary. Wishing you good health. Currently, avoid erectio...