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Pre / Post-Care Saucerization

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Table of Contents

Saucerization Recovery At a Glance

  • Hospitalisation: Usually outpatient
  • Walking: Immediately after procedure
  • Medication: Painkillers 1–3 days
  • Meals: Resume normal diet
  • Shower: Day after procedure
  • Wound Care: Change dressing regularly; keep area clean
  • Flight: Next day
  • Back to Work: 1–2 days
  • Exercise: Light activity next day
Pre / Post Care

What Is Saucerization?

Saucerization is a type of surgery used to treat a skin abscess or boil. The procedure involves draining the pus from the abscess after making an incision and then removing the entire infected region with a scalpel. In some cases, a small amount of healthy tissue around the abscess may also be removed. After the infected region has been excavated, it will leave a crater, or saucer-shaped wound, which is then covered with a sterile dressing. It is important to keep the dressing clean and dry, and to change it as directed by your doctor to promote healing.

The procedure is often performed under local anaesthesia and only takes a few minutes. The main advantage of this technique is that it is thorough (by removing any traces of infection along with its surrounding tissue), and it speeds up the healing process. 

What Conditions Is Saucerization Used To Treat?

Saucerization is a medical procedure primarily used to treat infected sebaceous cysts or skin abscesses (boils). It involves removing the region surrounding the infected skin with a scalpel and then draining the pus or other fluid accumulated in the affected area to remove the infection entirely. This also helps to reduce swelling and pain, but its goal is to prevent further infection. 

In some cases, saucerization may also be used to remove a small portion of tissue for biopsy to determine if there are other underlying reasons for those with a high risk of re-infection. In most cases, patients can resume their activities right after the surgery.

What To Expect Before Saucerization

In order to ensure that your saucerization procedure goes smoothly, it is important to prepare for the procedure in advance. 

These are the steps you should follow:

  • Avoid eating or drinking for at least six hours before your scheduled surgery.
  • Avoid applying makeup or lotions on the region of the abscess on the day of your procedure. 
  • Avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before the surgery.
  • You should make sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. 

These simple tips can help ensure that your saucerization procedure is safe and successful.

Before you come in for your saucerization procedure, please be sure to bring the following items with you to the hospital: 

  • A list of your current medications, 
  • Any allergies you have, 
  • A list of your medical conditions, 
  • Your insurance information, and 
  • An extra pair of loose, comfortable clothing and shoes. 

Please also make arrangements for someone to drive you home after your procedure. 

If you have any questions about what to bring or how to prepare for your saucerization, please call our clinic, and we will be happy to assist you. 

No, you do not need to fast before saucerization. The procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia, so you can eat and drink normally beforehand. However, your surgeon may recommend that you avoid eating anything for a few hours before the procedure to decrease the risk of nausea and vomiting during or after surgery.

Ask our clinic for clarification if you have any questions about fasting before saucerization for skin abscesses.

It is always best to check with our team before stopping any regular medication, even if it is for a short time.

Some medications, such as blood pressure or seizure medication, can cause problems if they are stopped suddenly. If unsure, please inform our doctor before opting for the procedure. If you are on blood thinning medication (warfarin, heparin etc.), you will need to stop this for a period of time before and after your saucerization procedure. Our doctor will be able to advise you on when to stop taking this medication.

Aspirin and other painkillers should be continued unless otherwise advised by our doctor.

Please bring a list of all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements, during the consultation session before the procedure.

Pre-admission testing is not required for saucerization of skin abscesses; however, if you have any active infections, please inform our doctor to treat these before the procedure.

You should also inform our doctor if you have any previous history of keloid scarring, as there is a risk that this could occur following the procedure.

It is also important to note that saucerization is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding patients. Please inform your GP or specialist if you fall into either of these categories so that alternative treatment options can be considered.

What To Expect After Saucerization

The recovery period after saucerization will depend on the size and location of the abscess. For example, an abscess on the face or head will likely heal more quickly than on the trunk or legs.

In most cases, the recovery period will be around two weeks.

During this time, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to help prevent infection. You should also avoid picking at or scratching the scab, which can delay healing. If you have any concerns or your symptoms worsen, please do not hesitate to contact us.

In most cases, you will not require further treatment after a saucerization. However, if an infection does occur, you may need additional antibiotics to treat infection. Additionally, if the skin around the abscess is particularly thin or delicate, your doctor may recommend that you have a skin graft.

This is a procedure in which healthy skin from another area of your body is transplanted to the area around the abscess. Skin grafts are usually only necessary in very rare cases.

You should avoid physical or strenuous activities for 1 week.

You may be discharged the same day after surgery. For complex cases, you may be required to stay in the hospital for a day for medical observation.

There will likely be a scar after the saucerization procedure. However, the size and visibility of the scar will depend on several factors, such as the location of the procedure, your skin type, and how well the wound heals. With proper care, scars often fade over time and become less noticeable.

Wound Care – Post Procedure

Proper wound care is needed for effective healing and reducing the risk of infection after saucerization. At G&L Surgical we provide instructions for wound cleaning at home and offer professional wound care management to promote healing.

Wound Cleaning at Home

Patients who have undergone saucerization at G&L Surgical will be given an aftercare kit containing cotton buds, alcohol swabs and plasters. Follow these simple steps using the kit provided:

  1. Clean the Wound: Use the alcohol swab to gently clean the area around the wound. Avoid applying alcohol directly to the wound
  2. Apply the Cotton Bud: Dab around the wound with the cotton bud to keep the area clean and dry.
  3. Cover with a Plaster: Once clean, place a plaster over the wound to protect it from dirt and bacteria. Ensure it’s secure but not too tight.

V.A.C.® Therapy

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After undergoing saucerization, proper wound care can significantly reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. It is possible that the wound may retain fluid and at G&L Surgical, we utilise negative wound pressure therapy also known as vacuum-assisted closure (V.A.C.® Therapy) to remove fluids from open wounds.

V.A.C.® Therapy is a non-invasive wound management system that uses a vacuum pump to create negative pressure around the wound, which helps to remove excess fluid and promote blood flow. The therapy involves placing a special foam dressing over the wound, which is then covered by a transparent adhesive film that pulls the edges of the wound together through a vacuum. 

This post-procedure care helps to reduce the risk of infection, healing time and scarring. If you are unsure about the wound care procedures after your treatment, please reach out to our clinic for assistance.

Diet – Post Procedure

After undergoing saucerization, it’s important to follow a proper diet that supports your recovery and overall well-being. The foods you choose to include or avoid can play a significant role in the healing process. 

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
These are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote healing and boost your immune system. 

  • Strawberries 
  • Spinach
  • Carrots 
  • Broccoli 
  • Bell peppers

Lean Proteins
These provide the building blocks for tissue repair and help maintain muscle strength. 

  • Skinless chicken
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Tofu
  • Legumes

Whole Grains
These complex carbohydrates provide energy and fibre to support digestion.

  • Whole wheat bread
  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Oats

Health Fats
These fats aid in nutrient absorption and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Avocados
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Olive oil

Processed and Sugary Foods
These can impair the healing process and increase inflammation.

  • Artificially sweetened drinks
  • Canned beverages
  • Candies
  • Pastries

High-fat and Fried Foods
Limit your consumption of greasy or deep-fried foods, as they can slow down digestion and potentially cause discomfort.

  • Greasy burgers
  • French fries
  • Fried chicken

Spicy and Acidic Foods
These may irritate the digestive system and potentially worsen any discomfort.

  • Citrus fruits
  • Chillies
  • Tomatoes 
  • Peppers

Alcohol and Caffeine
It’s best to avoid or limit alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as they can interfere with hydration and delay healing.

  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Energy drinks
  • Alcoholic beverages

Why Choose Us For Your Saucerization In Singapore?

At GL Surgical, we understand that every patient is unique and deserves individualised care. 

Having had experience treating patients with skin abscesses, Dr Ganesh at G & L Surgical Clinic strives to provide you with the proper diagnosis and treatment for you to fully recover. 

Furthermore, the staff at G & L Surgical Clinic have been thoroughly and consistently trained to make your experience a comfortable and hassle-free one. 

If you are planning to have your abscess treated, you can be assured that we will properly diagnose and assess you and ensure that you receive the care necessary for your recovery.

Organise a consultation with our team for further assistance on how you can have your saucerization procedure arranged.