Post-Surgery Care for Ear Lobe Cysts: Common Concerns and Solutions

Sebaceous cyst surgery

Hello, I had a cyst removal surgery behind my earlobe at the beginning of this month.
The doctor said that the wound would heal on its own within two days post-surgery, and I just needed to avoid getting it wet during this time.
On the first day after the stitches were removed, there was only some redness and swelling, which was manageable.
However, on the second day, when I changed the dressing, there was a sudden significant amount of bleeding and pain.
I was worried that the wound had opened up and needed a stitch, but when I went to the hospital, the doctor only prescribed the same ointment for me to apply and mentioned that since the incision was quite large, I should avoid getting it wet and let it heal naturally.
However, I have been caring for it for almost a month now, and there is still a bit of blood on the dressing every day.
The distance between the wounds on either side is about 0.3-0.5 cm.

I would like to ask:
1.
After the surgery, my earlobe still feels raised when I touch it.
Does this mean it wasn't cut cleanly?
2.
A family member who helps me apply the ointment said that my earlobe has a very deep hole because the wounds on both sides cannot close properly.
They think the doctor may have removed the stitches too early and keep urging me to go back for a stitch (but the doctor said it wasn't too early to remove the stitches or that the wound had opened, and advised me to wait for the wound to heal).
What should I do?
3.
I really want to wash my hair normally.
Can I just apply waterproof artificial skin over it?
4.
I really don't want to have a scar.
What should I do to care for it?
I apologize for having so many questions, but I have been worried for nearly three months since the cyst developed until after the surgery.
I hope you can provide me with some answers.
Thank you!

Xiao Guai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/22

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
It is possible that the wound was not cleaned properly, but poor wound healing can also be a factor.

2.
If the wound has not healed one month after surgery, a revision surgery for debridement and closure should be considered; otherwise, it may significantly affect daily activities and there is a risk of wound infection.

3.
Artificial skin or waterproof bandages are both acceptable options.

4.
If scarring is a concern, a revision surgery may be necessary; if surgery is not desired, the only options left are the use of silicone tape or scar ointments.

Reply Date: 2012/04/22

More Info

Post-surgery care for ear lobe cysts can indeed raise several concerns, especially when it comes to wound healing and the potential for scarring. Let's address your questions one by one, while also providing some general advice on post-operative care.

1. Feeling a Bump After Surgery: It is not uncommon to feel a bump or a raised area on the ear lobe after surgery, especially if the incision was made to remove a cyst. This could be due to swelling, scar tissue formation, or even the healing process itself. If the bump persists and does not seem to decrease over time, it would be advisable to follow up with your surgeon to ensure that there are no complications, such as residual cyst material or infection.

2. Concerns About Wound Closure: If your family member is noticing a "deep hole" in your ear lobe, it could be a sign that the wound is not healing as expected. However, your surgeon's assessment is crucial here. If they have indicated that the wound is healing properly and that it is normal for the edges not to meet perfectly, it may just be part of the healing process. If you continue to experience bleeding or if the wound appears to be worsening, it would be wise to seek a second opinion or return to your surgeon for further evaluation. They may consider additional interventions if necessary.

3. Washing Your Hair: Keeping the surgical site dry is essential for proper healing. If you want to wash your hair, using a waterproof bandage or artificial skin can be a good option, but make sure it is applied securely to prevent water from seeping in. Always consult your surgeon before trying this, as they may have specific recommendations based on your individual healing progress.

4. Preventing Scarring: To minimize scarring, it is important to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions closely. Here are some general tips:
- Keep the area clean and dry.

- Avoid sun exposure on the healing wound; use sunscreen if you need to be outside.

- Once the wound has closed, consider using silicone gel sheets or ointments that are designed to reduce scarring.

- Avoid picking at scabs or the healing area, as this can lead to more noticeable scars.

In addition to these specific answers, here are some general post-operative care tips for ear lobe cyst surgery:
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor the healing process.

- Pain Management: If you experience pain, over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but consult your doctor for recommendations.

- Signs of Infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

- Avoiding Strain: Try to avoid any activities that may strain the area, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise, until you receive clearance from your doctor.

It's understandable to feel anxious about the healing process, especially after a surgery that has taken a significant amount of time and care. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key; don't hesitate to reach out with any concerns or questions you may have. They are there to help you navigate your recovery and ensure the best possible outcome.

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