Shaving and Stitches

[lordfink]

I recently had a excision to remove a lump on my neck. It turned out to be a calcium deposit so nothing much to worry about.

However, the surgery did leave my neck with 4 stitches or sutures as some people call them. While the doctor had no specific instructions, I assume that shaving is a no go while the stitches are still on. Am I correct? I am pretty sure my DE would rip through the stitches.

The no shaving has left me with a week long growth that itches like hell and I've not been able to faceturbate for a while now.

Does anyone know once I get the stitches removed - how long before I can start shaving again? Also, is there anyway to make this hellish itching stop?

Help!

 

[thekinge]

While you'll get some good advice here, I'd recommend that you ask your doctor about it if you haven't already done so and mention your "DE shaving hobby" to him when you do. He's best placed to advise you on this!

 

[lordfink]

I did ask her. She gave me a non committal response about seeing the state of the cut later on and didn't seem to quite grasp what DE shaving was.

But yes I will press on for a response when I go back to remove the stitches. Am still keen though to hear whether other members had a similar experience and how they fared.

 

[johnm1952]

Had a perodidectomy (gland the mumps are in) about 25 years ago. Still a minefield in this area and have to be very carefull. Had to use an electric for about 6 months until the area toughened up, and I still nick the scar once in a while. My advice is to try a cheap electric for a while.

 

[Harvey1]

As far as I remember the itching disappears after two or three days.

 

[djm2]

Speak with your doctor, but do not shave over the sutures. Once they are removed, then you might consider getting close to the remaining scar tissue, but I would avoid a DE shave over the scar for some time -- probably 2-3 months -- until that area has completely healed. An electric can be used in that area. As for the itch, have you tried a shave balm?

 

[LMAN007]

Avoid using your DE in that area and try using a throw-away BIC in the area .It is a MUCH milder blade than the DE, but at least it will get the job done and you won't have a ball of hair growing from your neck.

 

[lordfink]

Thanks guys! Yes - I'd very much like to avoid a hair ball on my neck too I usually use a Muhle R41 but based on the advice I might bring out the EJ 89L or Merkur 34C for a less aggressive shave while the face is recuperating.

As for the itching... I tried some A/S/B on the beard to stop the itching and it helped for a couple of hours. Think I will need to get the bottle with me to work and regularly apply during the day.

 

[dieselfuel79]

As others have mentioned - consult your doctor.

 

[phillylion]

I did ask her. She gave me a non committal response about seeing the state of the cut later on and didn't seem to quite grasp what DE shaving was.

But yes I will press on for a response when I go back to remove the stitches. Am still keen though to hear whether other members had a similar experience and how they fared.

I don't think it really matters if you're using a DE or a cartridge razor--she should be able to tell you how best to shave that area--or not to. I had a small growth removed from my neck. I asked the dermatologist what I should do when shaving that area. He said go over it very carefully and lightly.

 

[lordfink]

Quick update. Went to get the stitches removed yesterday. My 10 day growth was quite heavy and that led to some challenges. A number of clinic assistants tried to remove them but claimed they couldn't see the stitches through the growth! Finally, there was one "brave" enough to give it a try.

The dermatologist did a bang up job. I was able to shave over the area with a DE (Merkur 34C rather than my usual R41) lightly. Not a BBS but better than what I expected under the circumstances.

I think I will have to wait for a month or two before going back to the R41 or a straight. But apart from a little soreness and redness the area looks pretty good.

Thanks for the advice!

 

[thekinge]

Good to know lordfink. Be careful and enjoy your shaves!

 

[lordfink]

Thanks, Dhilip. Appreciate it!