Guidelines for Post-Procedure Swimming
Skin Biopsy:
Most shave biopsies have healed within 7-10 days. Lower legs can take longer. You can resume swimming when the wound has started to heal over.
Skin Excision with Sutures
1-2 weeks: Sutures will be in place for 1-2 weeks. It is recommended that you avoid swimming for this time period
2-4 weeks: It is advisable to avoid adding excess strain on incision sites for up to a month after a large excision. It is especially important to avoid excess stress in areas such as lower legs, shoulders, neck and back for 2-4 weeks.
4+ weeks: Most wounds will be healed by four weeks and it will be OK to swim. Lower legs are a common exception and they can sometimes takes months to heal. Consult your provider if you have questions.
Chlorine and salt water can irritate incision sites increasing the risk of infection.