What to expect post operatively
For a period of four to six weeks after surgery, you will require physiotherapy and you will mobilise in soft sandals or boots. The therapists will provide you with advice on how to use them.
Scars may be swollen and firm for a few months. Massaging the scars with moistuirising cream will help soften them.
What are some of the problems that may arise?
As with any surgery there are risks.
Infection can occur as with any surgery and is usually treated with antibiotics.
Collection of blood under the skin (haematoma) can occur especially in patients on aspirin or warfarin. It can usually be drained without much difficulty.
Minor wound breakdown is not unusual. Simple dressings will suffice.
Partial or total loss of the skin grafts or the flaps (Z plasty) may occur especially in smokers
Scars especially from skin grafts may become hypertrophic or lumpy. Massage with cream or silicone gel treatment will help.
There may be some areas of altered sensation or numbness on the inner sides of the toes after seperation in cases where the nerve is shared.