Pain control
Give medications as required for pain (paracetamol and ibuprofen
are available from pharmacies without prescription).
Dressings
Keep the dressings clean, dry and intact. Keep the injured part
elevated as much as possible and encourage quiet activities to
allow the area time to heal.
What to expect
The wound that was repaired will have a scar. Every effort is
made to minimise scarring and achieve the best cosmetic result. You
will be given instructions at your review appointment on what to do
to prevent poor healing and bad scarring. This may include the use
of tapes or massage with sorbolene cream or aloe vera. Avoid
exposing scars to sun for at least 12 months and always use a
strong sunscreen if sun exposure is unavoidable.
Medical attention
Seek medical attention if your child:
- Increasing pain or pain not relieved by medication
- Persistent fever
- General unwellness
- Colour changes (white, blue, purple) or swelling to the fingers
or toes
- Persistent pins and needles or numbness
- Wound discharge or increasing redness
Follow-up
Your follow-up appointment will be at one of the following:
- Plastic Surgery Outpatients (Registrar Clinic), Blue Desk,
Ground Floor, The Royal Children's Hospital (morning appointment)
- Consultant Clinic
- Consultant Private Rooms
- Local doctor
If you are unable to keep your appointment please call to
reschedule.
Contact
Plastic & Maxillofacial Surgery Office - 9345 5391
Outpatient appointments - 9345 6180
Plastic Surgery Resident or Registrar - via switchboard on 9345
5522
Developed by The Royal Children's Hospital Speech Pathology and Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery departments. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers.
Reviewed November 2015.
Kids Health Info is supported by The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation. To donate, visit www.rchfoundation.org.au.