Instructions for Care After an Office Procedure

These are the standard recommendations from our doctors for your care after an office procedure. Please review them prior to leaving the office and discuss any questions with our staff. 

You should expect mild bruising and mild pain after an office procedure. If your pain is increasing or if it is not being controlled by our usual measures, then please call our office for further guidance. Signs of infection include fever over 100.5 degrees, swelling, redness, or drainage. If you have any concerns about the possible development of an infection, then contact our staff for evaluation. If you have concerns about how the procedure may affect other medical conditions, please discuss those matters with the physician before going home.

Pain Control

• Ice for 24-48 hours can be very helpful for pain control and it can minimize bruising and swelling at the wound site.

• Usually, Tylenol or Advil will provide adequate additional pain relief.

If you feel that a stronger pain medicine will be required for your care, discuss it with the physicians before leaving the office.

• Following most breast procedures it is helpful to wear a snug fitting bra or sports bra 24 hours a day for 2-3 days. The support can make a big difference in your comfort.

Wound Care

• Dressing changes should be done daily until any drainage has stopped for 24-48 hours. Dry gauze and tape or Band-Aids can be used, depending on your needs or preference.

• If steri-strips (butterfly tapes) are used, then do not apply any topical ointments to the incision. If sutures are visible, then application of Neosporin daily will be advised by the physician.

• Keep the wound dry for approximately 48 hours after the procedure.  Shower water can then run over the incision, but it is still advisable to not constantly soak the incision under water for about two weeks after the procedure.

Follow-up Appointment

• Please schedule a follow-up appointment for a wound check, review of pathology results, and discussion of ongoing care. We will advise you when that appointment should be made.