Post-Operative Care After Traditional Axillary Surgery - Plastic Surgery

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Post-operative care following traditional axillary surgery, such as surgery for axillary hyperhidrosis (commonly referred to as "sweaty armpits" or "body odor"), is crucial for ensuring proper healing and minimizing complications. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some concerning symptoms that warrant attention.

Firstly, the presence of blood and clear fluid on the dressings of both axillae (armpits) is not uncommon in the immediate post-operative period. However, excessive bleeding or a significant amount of fluid accumulation can indicate complications such as hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) or seroma (a pocket of clear fluid that sometimes develops after surgery). It's essential to monitor the amount of drainage; if it is substantial or accompanied by increasing pain, redness, or swelling, you should contact your surgeon or healthcare provider immediately.

Regarding your question about whether the stitches can be removed if there is still blood present at your follow-up appointment, it is generally advisable to wait until the wound has stabilized and any active bleeding has ceased before removing stitches. If there is still significant bleeding or drainage, your surgeon may decide to postpone the removal of stitches to allow for further healing and to prevent the wound from reopening.

As for lifting heavy objects after traditional axillary surgery, the general recommendation is to avoid heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. This timeframe allows the surgical site to heal adequately and reduces the risk of complications such as wound dehiscence (wound reopening) or increased swelling. Heavy lifting can put strain on the surgical area, which may lead to discomfort or complications.

In addition to these considerations, here are some general post-operative care tips for your recovery:
1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding wound care. If you are advised to change the dressings, ensure that you do so with clean hands and sterile materials to prevent infection.

2. Monitor for Signs of Infection: Look for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound. Fever or chills can also be signs of infection.

3. Pain Management: Take prescribed pain medications as directed. If you experience severe pain that is not relieved by medication, contact your healthcare provider.

4. Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns you may have.

5. Gradual Return to Activities: While it is important to rest and allow your body to heal, gradually reintroducing light activities as tolerated can aid in recovery. However, listen to your body and avoid any movements that cause pain.

6. Nutrition and Hydration: Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to support your body's healing process.

In summary, while some drainage is normal after surgery, the presence of blood and fluid should be monitored closely. It is essential to follow your surgeon's advice regarding wound care and activity restrictions. If you have any concerns about your recovery, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. Your health and safety should always come first during the recovery process.