Skin Cancer Service - Plymouth Hospitals
Skin Cancer Service - Plymouth Hospitals
Skin Cancer Service - Plymouth Hospitals
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<strong>Plymouth</strong> Hospital NHS Trust<br />
<strong>Skin</strong> <strong>Cancer</strong> <strong>Service</strong><br />
How do I care for the skin graft once it has healed?<br />
<strong>Skin</strong> grafts have fewer oil and sweat glands so tend to become<br />
dry. When the graft is completely healed, it should be kept clean<br />
by gentle washing. Avoid very hot water and never use highly<br />
perfumed soaps, creams or bubble baths until it is well healed.<br />
You need to gently massage oily cream in once or twice a day to<br />
moisturise the graft and keep the skin supple. E45, aqueous<br />
cream or unperfumed Nivea can be used. This is usually kept<br />
up for 6 months.<br />
Will I need to wear any support when I go home?<br />
If your skin graft is on your leg, yes you will. Tubigrip (an elastic<br />
stocking) is required for walking for several months after and<br />
should not be discontinued without medical advice. Tubigrip<br />
should be applied in the morning and removed when you go to<br />
bed. Your leg(s) should be elevated on a stool when you are<br />
resting to prevent any unnecessary swelling.<br />
Is there any other advice I should know about<br />
caring for my skin graft?<br />
Yes, the skin graft will be very sensitive to the sun. The graft<br />
may sunburn more readily or develop blotchy pigmentation. For<br />
the first year during strong sunshine, your graft should be<br />
protected. Keep it covered up or use total block cream that you<br />
can buy from your local chemist.<br />
If you experience any problems immediately after your<br />
discharge from hospital, you can telephone Lynher Ward<br />
anytime on 01752 7922744 for advice. If you experience any<br />
problems once you are under the care of the dressing clinic,<br />
please contact them on 01752 431024 (Monday-Friday, 0830-<br />
1630).<br />
<strong>Skin</strong> Grafts for <strong>Skin</strong> <strong>Cancer</strong><br />
<strong>Skin</strong> <strong>Cancer</strong> <strong>Service</strong>