Skin Grafting: What to Expect & Outcomes
A comprehensive guide to skin grafting, the procedure that covers wounds with healthy skin to support healing.
Treatment begins with
Wound Preparation
Graft Harvesting
Graft Placement
Healing & Follow-up
Grafting is considered for wounds where enough healthy skin is present locally but the defect is too large to close directly.
You may need this if...
These signs may indicate that this treatment is the recommended course of care:
- A burn wound or chronic ulcer with a clean, healthy wound bed
- A wound too large to close by direct stitching
- Loss of skin from injury or after tumour removal
- A wound that has not healed with standard care
A plastic surgeon's evaluation confirms whether this treatment is the right option for you.
What is Skin Grafting?
Skin grafting transfers healthy skin from a donor area to cover a wound, providing durable skin coverage and supporting faster healing.
Grafting provides durable skin cover for wounds too large to heal on their own.
When This Treatment is Considered
Grafting is considered for wounds where enough healthy skin is present locally but the defect is too large to close directly.
- A burn wound or chronic ulcer with a clean, healthy wound bed
- A wound too large to close by direct stitching
- Loss of skin from injury or after tumour removal
- A wound that has not healed with standard care
The Care Pathway
1. Wound Preparation
The wound bed is prepared to ensure it is clean and ready to accept the graft.
2. Graft Harvesting
A thin layer of skin is taken from a donor site, usually the thigh.
3. Graft Placement
The graft is placed over the wound and secured with dressings or stitches.
4. Healing & Follow-up
Both the graft and donor site are monitored closely as they heal.
“Your care team supports you through every stage, from evaluation to full recovery.”
Expected Benefits and Possible Considerations
Skin grafting provides durable wound closure in most patients. Your care team will discuss individual risks based on your wound and overall health.
Every treatment has individual considerations. Your care team will discuss what to expect based on your specific situation.
What to Expect During Recovery
The graft typically takes within one to two weeks, with the donor site healing over a similar period.
Your care plan includes dressing changes, protecting the graft from pressure, and gradual return to normal activity.
Following your care team's guidance closely during recovery plays an important role in achieving the best possible outcome.
Questions to Ask Your Care Team
- 1.Where will the donor skin be taken from?
- 2.How long before the graft is fully healed?
- 3.What will the donor site look like afterward?
- 4.How do I care for the graft at home?
Not Sure What You Need?
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