After your total knee replacement, you will leave hospital with a Hypafix dressing applied over your wound. This guide explains how to change it yourself at home. The process is straightforward, and most patients manage it comfortably with the help of a family member or carer. Hypafix is waterproof — you do not need to avoid showering.
About Your Hypafix Dressing
Hypafix is a self-adhesive, semi-permeable wound dressing. It is waterproof and breathable, designed to remain on the skin for extended periods. It protects the wound against abrasion, helps the scar form in a narrow, flat line, and can be worn continuously during showering.
You were sent home with this dressing already applied. Leave it in place until it begins to lift naturally from the edges — this is the normal end of its life. If it is still fully intact after two weeks, remove it at that point. The wound will be well sealed by then.
Step-by-Step Dressing Change
You will need: a roll of Hypafix tape, scissors, and clean hands. A second person can be helpful to hold the dressing in position while you apply.
- Remove the old dressing — peel slowly from the skin edges, supporting the wound as you go. Go slowly around any area that is tender.
- Inspect the wound — check for unusual redness, discharge, wound separation, or unexpected swelling. If concerned, take a photo and contact our rooms.
- Let the skin dry — pat dry with a clean towel if needed. Do not rub.
- Cut the new Hypafix — cut a piece large enough to cover the entire wound with at least 1–2cm overlap onto intact skin on all sides.
- Apply and smooth — position the Hypafix over the wound and smooth all edges firmly down onto the skin. Ensure there are no air bubbles or loose edges.
Watch Dr Chien-Wen Liew discuss this topic.
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