What should you know about incision and drainage?

A clinician examines the swelling, cleans the skin, and may use lidocaine local anaesthetic to numb the area. A small incision lets trapped pus escape. The cavity may be gently cleaned and left partly open so further fluid can drain; a dressing protects the site. The aim is pressure relief and removal of infected material, not simply covering the skin. An abscess can occur with a boil, while spreading redness may indicate cellulitis.

Follow the dressing instructions and keep the surrounding skin clean. Wash your hands before and after touching the dressing, avoid squeezing the wound, and take only medicines recommended for you. Mild soreness or drainage can occur as the cavity heals. Attend any planned wound check so the clinician can assess drainage and healing. Ask whether you should limit friction, swimming, or strenuous activity until the opening has closed.

Seek urgent assessment for rapidly spreading redness, severe or increasing pain, fever, confusion, faintness, or feeling very unwell. Contact the treating clinic if drainage suddenly stops while swelling returns, bleeding does not settle with firm pressure, or the wound develops a worsening smell. People with diabetes, reduced immunity, or poor circulation may need earlier review because infection can progress more quickly.

Ask what caused the abscess, how often to change the dressing, whether a sample should be tested, which symptoms mean the infection is spreading, and when the wound should be checked. You can also ask how to manage painful skin during healing and whether an antibiotic is appropriate.