I've got this boil near my groin, right over the left thigh, and it's been bothering me for about 56 days now. A couple of days ago, I noticed it turned into this red and soft spot, about 0.3 by 0.3 cm in size, surrounded by a hard area measuring 4 by 2 cm. It really started to hurt a couple of days back, so I consulted a surgeon. He suggested I take cefixime and diclofenac tablets, along with using SU-MAG ointment for dressing. The next day, I applied a good amount of SU-MAG and dressed the boil, and by the end of the day, the pain was gone. But now, the boil has an opening. I'm a bit unsure about what to do next. Should I keep using the SU-MAG dressing even though the boil is open, or should I stop? Or maybe switch to Betadine dressing? Is it better to go back to the surgeon for further drainage? I'd really appreciate any advice you could give!

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ranjith Darla

General Practitioner

MBBS
3+ Yrs

Consult Now

You should now switch to Betadine dressing to help prevent infection and promote healing of the open wound. Betadine is an antiseptic solution that can be applied to the affected area. Make sure to clean the area gently before applying the Betadine dressing. If you experience any worsening symptoms or signs of infection, it would be advisable to consult the surgeon again for further evaluation and management.

Answered 04/07/2025

More General Surgery Health Queries

View all

my dad has thyroid levels at 30 and needs hernia surgery - is it safe for him to go through with the operation given his thyroid condition

needs P/E for better advice.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Had laser surgery for pilonidal sinus a month ago but now there's pus and pain in the same spot again. Does this mean the surgery didn't work? What are my options for a permanent fix?

kindly share report

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I have an inguinal hernia on my left side but it doesn't hurt should I still consider surgery or wait until it starts causing pain? What are the risks if I delay treatment?

While a lack of pain doesn't necessarily mean immediate surgery for an inguinal hernia, it's wise to consult with a doctor about your options. Waiting for symptoms like pain to develop before considering surgery is generally safe for men, but can lead to complications if the hernia grows or becomes incarcerated. In women, watchful waiting is not recommended due to a higher risk of femoral hernias.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

General Medical Consultation

Guide to Lumbar Spine Surgery Post Operative Care And Instruction

This comprehensive guide provides essential post-operative care instructions for lumbar spine surgery, covering pain management, physical activity, recovery timelines, and tips for a successful rehabilitation.

General Medical Consultation

Day Care Surgery: A Complete Guide to Safe and Swift Treatment

Discover the complete guide to day care surgery, including benefits, eligibility, procedures, recovery, and safety measures. Learn why same-day surgery is a safe and convenient option.

Hernia

Hernia: Types, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Discover everything about hernias, including their types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Learn how to identify and manage this common condition effectively.

General Medical Consultation

Guide to Minimally Invasive Surgeries

Learn about minimally invasive surgery (MIS), including its benefits, common techniques, recovery process, factors that determine candidacy, and how it compares to traditional open surgery.

Hernia

Guide to Da Vinci Next Level Technology Surgical Excellence And

Explore the Da Vinci Surgical System, a robotic platform that assists surgeons in complex, minimally invasive operations. Learn the evidence-based benefits—like precision and faster recovery—for procedures in urology, gynaecology, and general surgery.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.