What should I do about the strands of hair caught in wound? (Photo)

Question

Hi Just noticed 2 strands of hair are in wound. I am not near the doctor, but have emailed him for advice. What should I do? Cut the hair at the root, try and pull out the strands, wait to go I go to Australia and get my doctor to look at it. The op was 3 weeks ago and ditches removed 2 weeks ago. Wounds have healed very nicely and happy with the results. Any advice would be appreciated Thanks

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Try pulling the hairs out of the incision.  If you are unsuccessful, try not to worry too much.  You should still do ok.  All the best on your recovery.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question . In most cases, a few hair strands in a surgical wound are not a big deal, especially if the suture has just been removed. It's always advisable to speak with your surgeon, though, to receive their precise recommendations. They are able to evaluate the circumstances and decide whether any additional measures are required.Here are some general tips to follow before your appointment:
Monitor the incision site: Keep an eye on the incision for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or increased pain or opening of the incision.
Maintain cleanliness: Continue to keep the incision clean and dry, following your surgeon's specific post-operative care instructions.
Avoid irritants: Avoid using harsh soaps, lotions, or perfumes on the incision site.
Protect the incision: If necessary, protect the incision from sun exposure and physical trauma.
Hope this was helpful!
Best wishes,
Dr Ali Sajjadian 
TRIPLE Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

It’s great to hear that your wounds have healed nicely! For the hair strands in the wound, it’s best to avoid cutting or pulling them out yourself, as this could irritate the area or introduce bacteria. If the strands are not causing any pain or irritation, you might consider leaving them until you can see your doctor, who can safely remove them. If you experience any discomfort or signs of infection, such as redness or swelling, seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep the area clean and avoid any unnecessary manipulation.

Richard Zienowicz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Your incision appears to be healing very well. If you are able to gently, and with clean hands and a clean tweezer, encourage the hairs out of the incision without disturbing the incision you may do so safely.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear oldchookyou can simply pull on the hairs slowly and tease them out. If they don't move, trim them close to the skin and let nature take its course. It would be unusual for them to cause any problems at this point. Inform your surgeon of your plan.

Arthur Dean Jabs, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

You answered your own question very well. Cut the hair and pull out the strands from the incision. You should do fineAll the Best,Dr. JA. Dean Jabs M.D. Ph.D. FACSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonBethesda MD/McLean VA

Guy Watts, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) · Answer

You have nothing to worry about. You can gently tease the hair from the incision line but do not be too concerned if you do not clear them. Have your surgeon review when you see them next them but this not uncommon after a procedure in and around the hairline. RegardsDr Guy Watts

Yuly Gorodisky, DO, FACOS · Answer

Hair can get trapped as the incision heals.  It may be hard for you to see, but if you can get someone to pluck them out, it may help.  If you have some infalmmation, you may need to apply some warm compresses and maybe use some topical antibiotics.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

It's ok to gently pull the hair out from within the wound. Sometimes you can also get some ingrown hairs as they grow through the scar.

Barry J. Cohen, MD · Answer

You can gently try to remove the hair but do not be aggressive in pulling.   If you are truly concerned, I would recommend that you contact your surgeon for guidance.

What should I do about the strands of hair caught in wound? (Photo)

Answers (16)

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