Information and aftercare guidance following curettage and cautery skin treatment, including wound healing advice, dressing care, and recovery support.
What Is Curettage and Cautery?
Skin Lesion Removal
- Curettage removes a skin lesion using a scraping technique.
Cautery Treatment
- Heat, electric current, or a chemical may be used to stop bleeding.
No Stitches Needed
- The wound heals naturally without stitches.
Healing Time
- The wound may take around two to three weeks to heal.
What To Expect During Healing
Black Healing Area
- The wound may appear dark or black initially, similar to a deep graze.
Gradual Healing
- Healing normally takes several weeks depending on the treatment area.
Scar Appearance
- The scar may appear red and slightly raised before fading.
Long-Term Recovery
- Over time the scar should settle into a flatter, flesh-coloured appearance.
Wound Care Following Surgery
1: Manage Discomfort
Once the local anaesthetic wears off, you may need simple pain relief medication.
2: Keep Dressing In Place
Leave the dressing on for 24 hours unless advised otherwise.
3: Clean The Area
Wash the wound gently under warm water or in the shower to remove debris.
4: Apply Ointment
Pat the area dry and apply Vaseline or ointment provided by your doctor.
5: Repeat Daily Care
Repeat wound cleaning and dressing care every 24 hours until healed.
Important Advice
- Use breathable dressings rather than waterproof dressings
- Avoid applying makeup until the wound has healed
- Contact the Dermatology Team if you have concerns about healing
- Monitor the wound for signs of infection or increased pain
Helpful Recovery Tips
Protect The Area
- Avoid friction or irritation while the wound heals.
Keep The Wound Clean
- Gentle cleaning can help reduce infection risk.
Follow Dressing Advice
- Continue wound care until the skin has fully healed.
Allow Time To Heal
- Scars may continue improving over several months.
Need Further Advice?
If you have questions or concerns about your wound healing, please contact the Dermatology Team.
Telephone: 0117 9449 782 / 0117 9449 783
Email: sirona.dermatology@nhs.net
