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Check the skin during and after treatment for any signs of injury. Skin with frostbite
appears white and does not turn to a healthy pink after being pressed by a fingertip. If
skin is injured by cold; warm area SLOWLY with lukewarm water.
DO NOT USE ice if you have extreme sensitivity to cold, decreased circulation, decreased
sensation or any vascular problems.
Do not lie on the ice application, but place the ice on top of the affected area instead.
Pressure increases the effect.
THE FOL LOW ING A RE DI FFERENT WAY S TO APPL Y COLD T HERAPY :
Over-the-Counter Ice Pads:
Can be purchased at most pharmacies and medical supply stores.
Once the pack is frozen, place in a pillow case and apply to the painful area.
Slush Pack - How to make a Slush Pack:
o Line a bowl with a double-heavy plastic Ziploc-style bag.
o Fill with two to three cups of water and one cup of rubbing alcohol. More water
will make a firmer slush. Seal the bags.
o Place the bowl in the freezer until slush forms.
o Remove bag; place in a pillowcase.
Karo Syrup –
o Pour the contents of 1 large bottle of Karo syrup into a double zip-loc bag.
o Place in a bowl in the freezer until substance firs up. ( will not harden)
o Remove bag; place in a pillow.
Place the ice pack on the affected area until numb. If you have trouble initially adjusting
to the cold, you may place a warm, damp towel against your skin and put the ice pack
on top of the towel.
Remove the pack and dry your skin thoroughly after approximately 20 minutes. Return
the slush/Karo pack to the bowl in the freezer for storage and future use.
CARING FOR YOUR INCIS ION
YOUR INCISION MUST BE KEPT CL E AN AND DRY
Your surgeon will let you know when and how it will be safe to shower.
You may NOT take TUB BATHS or submerse yourself in any standing water such as, HOT
TUB, POOL, OCEAN, LAKE, etc. until approved by your physician.
