Pellet Post Insertion Instructions

Proper Care for Your Insertion Site

Your insertion site is covered with two bandages. Please follow these steps for proper care:

• Outer Pressure Bandage: You can remove this bandage after 2 to 3 hours. If necessary, replace it with a new bandage to catch any fluids that might leak.
• Inner Bandage (Waterproof Tagaderm): This thin, see-through bandage should remain on for 7 days. Do not remove it before this time.

Post-Insertion Care Tips

• Apply an ice pack to the insertion area for 15 minutes a couple of times over the next 4 to 5 hours.
• For maximum comfort and optimal healing, use a 6” ACE WRAP around your torso to apply firm pressure on the site and reduce friction. You can get one from our office—ask Alexis if needed.

Bathing and Exercise

• Avoid tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools for the next 3-14 days.
• Showering is fine, but do not scrub the incision area until it’s fully healed (about 7 days). Also, make sure that the pressure of the shower doesn’t peel this off your body.
• Refrain from major exercises that could strain the incision area for the next 7 days.

Swelling and Relief

• The sodium bicarbonate in the anesthetic may cause swelling for 1-3 days. This is normal.
• For relief, take Benadryl (25-50mg) every 6 hours. Be cautious—50mg doses can cause drowsiness.

Bruising and Discomfort

• Bruising, swelling, and redness around the insertion site are common and can last from a few days to 2-3 weeks. You may take Arnica or Bromelain to help reduce these symptoms.
• A pinkish or bloody stain on the outer bandage is normal.
• If you experience bleeding, apply firm pressure to the area for 5 minutes.

Important Warnings

• Call our office if you notice any bleeding (not just oozing) or pus that doesn’t improve with pressure.

Pellet Re-insertion

• Most patients will need re-insertion of their pellets in 3 months after their initial insertion. Call to schedule as soon as your symptoms begin to return.

Follow-Up Appointments

It’s crucial to follow your appointment schedule to ensure your hormone therapy remains effective and to avoid health insurance denials. Missing appointments may result in your health insurance denying coverage, leading to out-of-pocket expenses.

Scheduled Date	Appointment Type
7-14 days after Insertion:	Suture removal with Nurse
4 weeks after Insertion:	4-week Post-Evaluation with MD
10-12 weeks after Insertion:	Re-insertion Evaluation + Labs with MD
12-14 weeks:	Re-insertion Procedure Visit

Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns!