Surgical Information » Surgery and Anesthesia, Normal Symptoms

Swelling and Bruising:

Some swelling and bruising can be expected after any surgery. However, severe swelling or bruising may be an indication of infection or excessive bleeding. If this occurs please contact our office immediately at (281) 344-1715.

Discomfort and Pain:

Mild to moderate discomfort is normal after any surgery. If pain becomes severe and is not relieved by pain medication, please call us at (281) 344-1715.

Crusting Along the Incision Lines:

We usually treat this with antibiotic ointment.

Numbness:

Small sensory nerves to the skin surface are occasionally cut when an incision is made. The sensation in those areas gradually returns (usually in 2-3 months) as the nerve endings heal.

Itching:

Itching and occasional small shooting electrical sensations within the skin frequently occur as nerve endings heal. Ice and massage are frequently helpful.

Redness of Scars:

All new scars are red, dark pink, or purple. Depending on the part of the body, this coloration gradually fades over time.

Common Risks

Hematoma:

Small collections of blood under the skin are usually allowed to absorb spontaneously. Larger hematomas may require aspiration, drainage, or even surgical removal.

Inflammation and Infection:

A superficial infection may require antibiotic ointment. Deeper infections are treated with antibiotics. Development of an abscess will usually require drainage.

General Anesthesia:

Many patients have a fear of general anesthesia. Extremely sensitive monitors that are used during surgery have greatly reduced the risks. This sophisticated monitoring makes recognition and treatment of problems with anesthesia almost immediate. Our physicians choose to operate in facilities where they have great confidence in the anesthesiologists and the monitoring equipment available. Your anesthesiologist will discuss the specific risks with you before surgery.