Post-Surgery Wound Healing: Pain, Care, and Scarring

Postoperative wound

I underwent thyroid nodule excision surgery in early May, and the biopsy results indicated a benign tumor.
However, I have some concerns about my current wound.
It seems to have a slight tingling sensation, and there is a feeling of some gradual protrusion.
Is this a normal part of the healing process? Currently, my wound is covered with silicone gel sheets, but I still have some questions about the application method.
Which of the following is the correct way to apply the silicone gel sheets: 1.
Should the silicone gel sheets overlap by about one-third over the wound (perpendicular to the wound)? 2.
Or should the silicone gel sheets be applied perpendicular to the wound with a 0.2 cm gap between each sheet? There are conflicting opinions, and I am a bit worried because I heard that the first method may prevent the wound from protruding, while the second method is what is indicated on the packaging.

After the surgery, my doctor advised me to avoid vigorous exercise for a month, but as a student, it is inevitable to run and jump around campus.
I still participate in normal group activities and run up the hills at school every day like my classmates.
Will this prolong the healing period or increase the likelihood of scarring? Lastly, I have one more question: if the wound is sutured with absorbable sutures, there is no need for suture removal, right? And does using absorbable sutures mean that the wound is less likely to scar? Thank you, doctor, for answering the questions of this troublesome patient!

Zhen bu zhi wei shen me yao kai dao de ren, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/26

Dr. Xie Wenhuai reply Surgery

Surgery on the neck is unlikely to leave noticeable scars as long as you continue to use silicone gel sheets to reduce pressure on the incision.
You will have a beautiful scar.
There's no need to worry.
Wishing you a smooth recovery.

Reply Date: 2006/05/26

More Info

After undergoing thyroid surgery for a benign tumor, it's understandable to have concerns about your wound healing and the associated symptoms. Let's address your questions and provide some insights into the healing process.

1. Post-Surgery Symptoms: It's common to experience mild sensations such as tingling or slight pain around the surgical site during the healing process. These sensations can be attributed to nerve regeneration and the body’s natural response to surgery. The feeling of the wound being slightly raised or "puffy" is also typical as the body produces collagen to repair the tissue. However, if you experience significant pain, redness, swelling, or discharge, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider, as these could be signs of infection or complications.

2. Use of Adhesive Strips (Beauty Tape): Regarding the application of adhesive strips, there are generally two common methods:
- Method 1: Overlapping the strips by about one-third, which can help distribute tension across the wound and may reduce the risk of hypertrophic scarring (raised scars).

- Method 2: Placing the strips parallel to the wound with a small gap between them, as per the manufacturer's instructions. This method is also effective but may not provide the same tension distribution as the first method.

Both methods can be effective, but the choice may depend on your specific wound characteristics and your surgeon's recommendations. It’s best to follow your surgeon's advice regarding the application technique, as they are familiar with your specific case.

3. Activity Level Post-Surgery: Engaging in normal activities, such as running or jumping, shortly after surgery can indeed impact your healing process. While light activity is generally encouraged to promote circulation, excessive strain or high-impact activities can lead to increased tension on the wound, potentially prolonging the healing time and increasing the risk of scarring. It’s advisable to follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding activity restrictions, especially in the first month post-surgery.

4. Suture Type and Scarring: If your wound was closed with absorbable sutures (often referred to as "beauty stitches"), these typically do not require removal, as they dissolve on their own. Absorbable sutures are designed to minimize scarring, but the final appearance of the scar will also depend on various factors, including your skin type, the depth of the incision, and how well you care for the wound during the healing process. Proper wound care, including keeping the area clean and moisturized, can significantly influence the final scar appearance.

In summary, mild sensations around your surgical site are generally normal during the healing process. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the application of adhesive strips and activity levels to optimize your recovery. If you have any concerns about your healing or if symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Your proactive approach to understanding your recovery is commendable, and I wish you a smooth healing process!

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