For patients who are planning to undergo surgery, understanding the four phases of healing after an injury is crucial for ensuring proper recovery and avoiding complications. According to Chris Michaelis, D.O., of Charleston Wound Care, “Wound healing is a complex biological process that ensures damaged tissue repairs itself effectively.” The first response to tissue injury, Dr. Michaelis said, is hemostasis, which occurs minutes to hours after an incident. During this stage, blood vessels constrict and platelets aggregate, forming a clot. “This clotting not only prevents further blood loss but also serves as a foundation for cellular activity that is critical to healing,” he said.
Once the bleeding is controlled, he explained, the body triggers a second phase in an inflammatory response. During this stage, white blood cells, particularly neutrophils and macrophages, arrive at the wound site to clear debris, destroy pathogens and release signaling molecules to recruit additional healing factors. Wounds can sometimes get “stuck” in this phase due to factors such as infection, poor circulation or underlying conditions such as diabetes. This prolonged inflammation delays the transition to subsequent healing phases, increasing the risk of complications such as chronic wounds or infections. For surgical patients, ensuring the wound is clean, infection-free and adequately dressed is critical for avoiding prolonged inflammation. Dr. Michaelis said close monitoring during this phase is essential for identifying and addressing early signs of complications.
During the next phase of proliferation, the body begins to rebuild tissue. Granulation tissue fills the wound bed, signaling progress toward closure. Adequate nutrition, hydration and mobility, as advised by the surgeon, can further optimize this phase.
The fourth and final phase involves remodeling the wound to restore tissue strength and function. Collagen fibers are reorganized and excess scar tissue is reduced. While the tissue regains most of its strength, it may not fully reach the tensile strength of uninjured skin. After the wound heals, it may be necessary to consult the professionals at Charleston Wound Care about putting a tailored treatment plan in place. That could include a skin care routine, SPF-based moisturizers, minimally invasive cosmetic procedures or, when necessary, minor surgical interventions to address scar tissue.
Dr. Michaelis recommended some tips for decreasing inflammation before even scheduling a procedure, in order to expedite the postsurgical healing process and to experience minimal pain. He said a good place to start is by consulting with a physician or surgeon about a nutritional diet low in carbs and rich in protein, amino acids, fruits, vegetables and antioxidants. “Whether you have a wound or not, nutrition should be a top priority because it prevents inflammation. So many foods, including those with pesticides, are pro-inflammatory. That’s why it’s also important to maximize organic choices. And protein is a game-changer, too, for patients who are healing,” Dr. Michaelis explained.
He further advised that reducing alcohol consumption, managing sugar intake, staying hydrated by drinking more water, quitting smoking, minimizing sun exposure and maintaining good skin care habits, such as moisturizing and using sunscreen, can help reduce inflammation well before surgery.
Dr. Michaelis also suggested that when scheduling surgery, it’s important to speak with your doctor about putting a wound care strategy in place. The next step is to book an appointment with Charleston Wound Care for as soon after the surgery as possible.
In addition to taking these proactive measures, Dr. Michaelis said it is important to line up good post-op care. He emphasized that by taking these actionable steps, the surgery and healing process thereafter will be successful. By not thinking ahead or correcting unhealthy habits, healing can take longer and potentially even require additional surgery. “Don’t be a passenger in your own life,” he said. “Grab the steering wheel and become your own advocate.”
He concluded, “For Charleston Wound Care, the optimal outcome is to ensure the patient has the capacity to heal quickly and avoid any complications. We focus on providing exceptional care in a spa-like environment, ensuring our patients feel valued and have the best healing experience possible.”
Charleston Wound Care offers its services at three locations, in Mount Pleasant, Charleston and Summerville. To book a consultation, visit charlestonwoundcare.com or call 843-800-1215, 843-612-5350 or 843-585-3577.
By Sarah Rose
