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Skin graft

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Skin transplant; Skin autografting

Expectations after surgery:

New blood vessels begin growing from the recipient area into the transplanted skin within 36 hours. Most skin grafts are successful, but in some cases they don't heal well and need another graft. The graft should be checked for good blood flow (circulation).

Convalescence:

The recovery from surgery is usually quick after split-thickness skin grafting, except in cases of major burns. The skin graft must be protected from trauma or major stretching for 2-3 weeks. Depending on the location of the graft, you may need to wear a dressing for 1-2 weeks. Avoid exercise that might stretch or injure the graft for 3-4 weeks. Some people need physical therapy after skin grafting.

Full-thickness grafts need a longer period of recovery. Most people with these grafts need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 weeks.

• Review Date: 5/3/2007
• Reviewed By: Robert A. Cowles, M.D., Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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