Should I Be Concerned About My Healing Process or Consult My Dermatologist?
At 33 years old and weighing 250 pounds, my only medication is Simpesse. Approximately a month ago, I had a concerning spot surgically excised from my chest's side, which fortunately turned out to be completely benign. However, my recovery has been quite eventful. Three weeks after the procedure, I developed a significant scab and was diligently applying a scar treatment gel along with Aquaphor as advised by my dermatologist. Things took a turn when I had to travel for an event. Upon arriving at my hotel, I noticed that the scab had detached from the edges of my skin, leaving my shirt stained with blood. I promptly covered it with a band-aid and reapplied Aquaphor for protection. When I awakened the next morning, I was surprised to find that the scab had nearly disintegrated, leaving behind a mess. To guard the exposed wound while away from my home, I have been using hydrocolloid bandages for the past week, changing them once they lose adhesion. Today, I arrived back and gently cleaned the area using Cetaphil. For context, the wound is approximately the size of a nickel. Is this typical for the healing process, or should I reach out to my dermatologist for advice? Perhaps I should visit urgent care? I previously had a mole removed from my arm, and that recovery felt different. Could this be related to the sensitivity of the skin in this particular area?
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 6:20:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your healing process, especially after a surgical procedure on such a visible part of your body. Let’s break down the situation and determine the best course of action.
Main Points:
- It's not uncommon for healing processes to vary, especially in different areas of the body or after specific procedures.
- Monitoring the wound's appearance and symptoms is essential.
- If you notice concerning changes, contacting your dermatologist would be advisable.
Explanation:
Healing can indeed differ based on various factors, including the location of the wound, skin sensitivity, and how the area is protected during recovery. The scab falling off and the wound appearing a bit messy after a move or change in care environment can happen. Hydrocolloid bandages are a good choice since they create a moist environment that can promote healing while protecting the area.
However, excessive bleeding, prolonged disintegration of the scab, or exposed tissue could signal that the area is not healing as expected, which may require medical evaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Assess the Wound: Look for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage that has an unusual color or odor. If you notice any of these symptoms, reaching out to your dermatologist or considering urgent care would be important.
-
Continue Care:
- Keep the wound clean using the gentle Cetaphil you used earlier.
- Continue applying Aquaphor or the scar treatment gel as recommended.
-
Reapply Dressings: As you're already doing, keep using hydrocolloid bandages to protect the area. Change them if they lose adhesion.
-
Monitor Healing: Observe the wound over the next few days. If you notice any changes or if it continues to bleed, it is best to consult your dermatologist for personalized advice.
Lastly, I acknowledge how unsettling this experience can be. If you're ever in doubt about the healing progress, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Your peace of mind is essential.
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