Pain control

Take medications as required for pain (paracetamol and ibuprofen are available from pharmacies without prescription). Local anaesthetic is injected into the area at the time of surgery; this will wear off within 24 hours and an increase in pain may occur at this time.

Dressings

Keep dressings clean, dry and intact until your review appointment.

Antibiotics

If antibiotics are prescribed for your child, administer these as directed.

What to expect

The cut that was repaired will have a scar. Every effort is made to minimise the scarring and achieve the best cosmetic result. You will be given instructions at the 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 has:

• Increasing pain or pain not relieved by medication
• Persistent fever
• General unwellness
• 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.