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Cauterised wound

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This page will give you information about caring for a cauterised wound. It is not a complete guide, if you have any questions or you require further explanations please do not hesitate to ask a member of staff.

After your minor procedure you have been left with an area of skin which has been cauterised to stop any bleeding points and to help the area to heal.

Local anaesthetic

If you have had an injection to make the area numb (local anaesthetic) it may remain numb for up to 4 hours. If the lip or nose area has been numbed please be careful, do not drink anything hot or very cold (i.e.:- ice lolly from freezer) until the feeling has returned.

Pain control

You were given a local anaesthetic injection prior to your surgical procedure to numb the skin. The effect of this will wear off gradually over about an hour.

If you feel any pain or discomfort at the site of operation after the anaesthetic has worn off you may take your preferred pain killer. Paracetamol is usually adequate. Do not take aspirin unless you are already taking this for other medical reasons.

Treat the area as though it were a burn:

  • Keep the wound and dressing completely dry for 48 hours
  • After 48 hours you may remove the dressing and wash the area with soap and water gently but do not soak in a bath
  • Do not use a strong shower jet directly to the area
  • After wetting pat dry – do not rub
  • Once a scab has formed apply a thin layer of Vaseline or antiseptic/antibiotic ointment two or three times a day for 7-14 days. Keeping the area greasy will help it to heal with a better scar
  • After 48 hours the wound does not need to be covered with a dressing unless it is in an area which may be prone to friction for example under straps, belts, hat rims etc. if bleeding occurs, apply constant pressure for 15 minutes
  • Do not go swimming until the area has healed
  • If the area becomes painful, red or swollen or oozes puss, a secondary infection may nave occurred. Please see your General Practitioner or contact the Dermatology department you attended.

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