After stitches are removed, a topical antibiotic ointment should be applied to the wound two to three times per day until it is fully healed. In addition to the ointment, it is important to apply a moisturizing cream to the wound to keep the skin moisturized and to promote healing.
Some of the best creams to use after stitches are removed are those that are specifically designed to treat and protect wounds such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment, Polysporin Scar Solution, and Bio-Oil Purcellin Oil.
It is also important to keep the wound clean and dry and to avoid any activities that increase the risk of infection, such as swimming or soaking in a bath.
Table of Contents
How long after surgery can I use Neosporin?
The length of time that you can use Neosporin after surgery depends on the type of surgery you had and your specific healing process. In general, Neosporin should only be used on the surgical site for up to 7 days after procedure.
Be sure to follow the instructions of your doctor or healthcare provider closely. After the first 7 days, you should stop using Neosporin and switch to a non-prescription skin moisturizer such as petroleum jelly to keep the surgical site moist and promote healing.
Additionally, it is important to keep the surgical site clean with soap and water and gently pat it dry. Even after you stop using Neosporin, continue to monitor your surgical site for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, pain, or drainage.
If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor immediately.
How long should I put Neosporin on stitches?
When caring for stitches, it is important to follow the instructions given to you by a medical professional. Generally, Neosporin or an antibiotic ointment should be applied to stitches several times a day for up to 5 days or for as long as your medical professional advises.
It is important to keep the wound clean, dry and covered and avoid getting it wet. When applying the Neosporin, use a clean cotton swab or gauze pad. You should also avoid picking or scratching at the scab, as this can delay healing and cause infection.
If you notice any redness, swelling, drainage, or any other change in the condition of the wound, contact a medical professional immediately.
Why not use Neosporin on wounds?
Neosporin is a popular first-aid antibiotic ointment, but it is not recommended for use on wounds. This is because Neosporin contains a combination of antibiotics that may not be effective against all bacteria and can lead to antibiotic resistance or an allergic reaction.
Additionally, Neosporin often contains a preservative called neomycin, which can be an irritant and can cause a burning sensation and redness at the site of application. Moreover, Neosporin does not encourage healing or the formation of healthy new skin cells and has been found to slow wound healing in some cases.
For these reasons, some doctors caution against the use of Neosporin for cuts, scrapes, and other wounds and instead recommend gentle, non-medicated cleaning of the wound with soap and water, followed by the application of a wound healing ointment such as Polysporin or an antibiotic cream like Triple Antibiotic Ointment.
These types of topical antibiotics are typically more effective, do not contain the preservative neomycin, and are less likely to cause a reaction.
Do stitches heal faster covered or uncovered?
It is generally recommended to keep stitches covered after they have been placed. Stitches are used to close wounds and allow them to heal quickly and properly. Covering them will help keep them clean and protected from the elements, which can help speed up the healing process.
Keeping the wound covered will also decrease the risk of infection, which can also help the healing process. Additionally, covering the stitches creates a barrier between the wound and any potential irritants, such as clothing or bedding.
Some medical professionals may recommend keeping the wound uncovered as it can help air circulate, thus helping the wound dry and avoid infection. Ultimately, the decision to cover a wound or leave it uncovered will be based on the advice of a medical professional, the type of wound, and the individual’s lifestyle and activities.
Which ointment is for wound healing after surgery?
The specific ointment for wound healing after surgery will depend on the type of wound and the patient’s specific needs. For minor, superficial wounds, a topical antibacterial cream, such as one containing polysporin or neomycin, may be recommended.
These types of ointments can help reduce the risk of infection, allowing the wound to heal more quickly. For deeper wounds and those that require a longer healing period, a moist wound healing ointment may be recommended.
These ointments typically contain ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, and other plant-based oils and extracts that accelerate healing, soothe the skin, and even reduce scarring. Regardless of which ointment is used, it is important to follow your doctor’s advice and only use products that are approved for wound healing.
It is also important to keep the wound clean, keep it covered when appropriate, and replace the gauze regularly.
