Every case of chronic pilonidal cysts calls for a pilonidal cyst removal surgery. The cyst causes pain and disturbs the body’s smooth and natural mobility. Even worse, sitting will be challenging due to its uncomfortable placement. Doctors say that the wound region should not be under pressure or otherwise it will impede the healing process and cause delay in recovery. Recall, optimal recovery depends on post-surgery treatment.
Items To Avoid following Pilonidal Cyst Surgery
The colorectal surgeon will inform you about the care to be taken following the excision of a pilonidal cyst. These are for posture and movement. The guidelines also include what to eat and avoid. Changing lifestyle habits is important to avoid any further relapse. The most important guidelines to follow are:
- No Strenuous Activity Or Heavy Weight Lifting
Strenuous activity or lifting heavy loads, especially if the pilonidal cyst treatment requires surgery can be damaging for the condition. Any kind of pressure or stretch on the site of surgery typically causes the sutures to break. This will delay wound healing and complicate the case.
- Do Not Sit For Prolonged Periods
How to sit after a pilonidal cyst surgery? This is a big area of concern. Due to the location of the cyst, the area is bound to feel the pressure upon sitting. Lie down for most part of the day. While following these guidelines throughout the recovery process, pay particular attention in the first several weeks following surgery. Sitting in a chair without covering the seat will cause problems. This will reduce pressure on the buttocks and the subsequent feeling of pain.
- Ignoring Pain and Discomfort May Cause Increase Case Complexity
Post surgery, discomfort and pain can take place. But these must be manageable and tolerable. Take prescription drugs and painkillers and it will gradually reduce in intensity. But if there are no signs of improvement even after a few days or the discomfort level seems to worsen, consult your doctor immediately. Do not ignore other symptoms like fever, redness, swelling and discharge. These are signs of infection or other complications. Make sure you do not use non-prescribed painkillers available over-the-counter.
- Do Not Miss Appointments
Follow-up appointments help assess the pace of recovery. Your doctor will schedule these appointments in advance and mention the dates in your discharge summary. These are scheduled at regular intervals and will give a fair idea of the healing process. So make sure you stick to the schedule for post-operative visits. It is also a perfect time to discuss any problems or issues you may be experiencing.
- Do Not Neglect Wound Care
Do not ignore wound care instructions at any cost. Follow the instructions carefully for proper healing. This will include cleaning the area and how and when to change of dressing. Keep the wound area completely dry. Remember not to enter the shower without covering the wound with a waterproof bandage. Do not miss out on following the pilonidal cyst antibiotic treatment plan to reduce any risk of infection in the wound. Always use prescribed ointments and medications as directed by the surgeon.
- Do Not Wear Tight Clothing
Wearing tight clothing is an important factor of developing a pilonidal cyst. Friction due to tight clothes causes the hair to break down. An ingrowth of hair is the root cause of the condition. Therefore, after surgery make sure you switch to loose fitting clothes that do not rub against or put pressure on the wound.
- Do Not Smoke
Smoking will reduce the body’s healing speed as nicotine restricts blood flow to the wound site. This can increase the risk of complications after surgery. Your doctor will advise you to quit smoking after surgery to promote better recovery or the wound.
- Do Not Stick To Unhealthy Eating Habits
Healthy eating habits are directly linked to better health and low incidence of pilonidal cyst. Obese people have loose skin flaps that increase the risk of developing the condition. Once you undergo a pilonidal cyst removal surgery it is important to restrain yourself from bad eating habits. Do not binge eat or consume too much of sugary snacks. A balanced diet after surgery will provide all the essential nutrients that support healing.
- Do Not Ignore Instructions On Physical Activity
While physical activity is important to keep the body healthy and active, its duration and intensity are of utmost importance during the postoperative period. Do not forget to follow the guidelines on safe physical activities as mentioned by the colorectal surgeon. As these guidelines are customized according to the type of surgery, they must be the go-to advice for activity levels.
Final Thoughts
The care after surgery is crucial for a complete recovery from pilonidal cyst. While there are guidelines to follow, by avoiding common pitfalls and adhering to the instructions, can one effectively promote healing. Remember not to self medicate. Instead get in touch with your doctor. Allen Kamrava MD MBA is a prominent name in Beverly Hills. He has a great track record of helping patients recover from the painful condition. His team not just focuses on the pre-surgery preparation but also gives equal importance to post-procedure care for effective healing. Book an appointment to understand the important points of post-procedure management.