A: For the first day or two after surgery rest a lot. All surgery is tiring. You can reduce swelling by elevating the site of surgery. Ice will also reduce swelling and pain. Apply it carefully so you do not damage the area. After the first twenty-four hours it will make very little difference. You can sometimes speed up the resolution of bruising by applying mild heat. Remember that the area around your incision is numb and burning yourself is easy. So be careful. Some patients feel that applying vitamin E or aloe vera to the wound may help. If you apply these creams do not rub the scar for about six weeks because you can damage the fragile new tissue.