HS Surgery: Procedures, Recovery and Finding a Surgeon

Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa Surgery and What to Expect

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful chronic skin condition that causes boil-like lumps and abscesses to form in areas like the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. For some patients, HS symptoms can become severe enough that surgery is recommended as a treatment option. Viewing HS surgery pictures can help patients understand the procedures and feel prepared for the process.

Goals of HS Surgery

There are a few main goals surgeons have when performing surgery on HS patients:

• Remove actively inflamed HS tissue
• Eliminate HS sinus tracts or tunnels under the skin
• Minimize scarring from chronic HS lesions
• Restore mobility and function impaired by HS
• Improve quality of life for the patient

Pictures of HS surgery sites can demonstrate how surgeons work to excise disease tissue and close wounds in ways that support healing.

Types of HS Surgery

Some common surgical procedures performed for hidradenitis suppurativa include:

Incision and Drainage

Small, painful abscesses may be drained of pus via a minor surgical incision. This relieves pressure and infection in the short-term.

Wide Excision

Excision of the entire affected area is done, removing all HS-involved tissue. This may leave large open wounds that require reconstructive surgery closure techniques.

Laser Surgery

A CO2 laser is used to vaporize and remove diseased HS tissue while sealing blood vessels to minimize bleeding and scarring.

Liposuction

Liposuction can be used to remove HS abscess pockets and nodules, typically in combination with excision methods for optimal clearing of disease.

What to Expect During HS Surgery

Understanding the general HS surgery process and recovery can make preparing for the procedure less intimidating.

Anesthesia

HS surgery is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia combined with IV sedation to keep patients comfortable throughout.

Excision of Tissue

The surgeon will cut out and remove all visibly inflamed HS tissue, going wider than just the involved area to help reduce recurrence risk.

Closing the Wound

Methods like sutures, skin grafts, flaps, or healing by secondary intention are used to close excision wounds in ways that support optimal healing.

Post-Surgery Care

Bandages, compression garments, medication, and wound care will be needed after surgery while healing. Follow-up appointments monitor progress.

Activity Restrictions

Restricting activity is required for a period after surgery to allow proper healing. This may mean missing work or needing assistance with daily tasks temporarily.

HS Surgery Recovery and Results

Pain and Discomfort

It's normal to have pain, swelling, bruising, and drainage from incision sites after surgery. Medications are given to manage discomfort as you heal.

Wound Care

Keeping surgical sites clean and dressed properly is crucial for optimal wound healing. Follow all wound care instructions from your care team.

Scarring

Scarring from HS surgery is inevitable, but surgeons work to minimize this through adept closure techniques. Scars do fade over time.

Healing Timeline

Healing from HS excision surgery often takes weeks to months depending on the size and depth of tissue removed. You'll have follow-ups to monitor your progress.

Recurrence Risk

While not guaranteed, surgery can provide long-term disease remission. Maintaining healthy habits and follow-up care helps reduce recurrence risk.

Preparing Mentally and Physically for HS Surgery

Know What to Expect

Research the procedure thoroughly and view HS surgery photos to know what the process involves and how sites look post-op. This reduces anxiety.

Plan Your Recovery Setup

Get your home ready with items you'll need for recovery like medications, wound supplies, compression garments, and assistance aids.

Communicate Your Needs

Tell your surgeon all HS-related concerns and post-op needs so they can best support you through planning, surgery, and aftercare.

Arrange Help as Needed

Have caregiver support lined up to help while activity is limited, especially if you live alone. Meal prep and cleaning assistance is useful.

Stop Smoking

Stop smoking at least 3 weeks before surgery and after to allow proper tissue healing and blood flow.

Rest Up

In the weeks before surgery, get plenty of rest to have the energy needed for recovering.

Finding an Experienced HS Surgeon

Vetting surgeons thoroughly is crucial to ensure the best procedure and results possible. Look for:

• Board certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists
• Extensive experience specifically treating HS patients
• Membership in accredited specialty societies
• Affiliation with highly regarded hospitals and surgical centers
• Excellent before and after photos of HS procedures
• Strong reviews and recommendations from former HS patients

Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions and consult with multiple surgeons before choosing one. Finding the right surgical team can be life-changing for living better with severe HS.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.