Service
Skin Tears / Traumatic Wounds
Skin tears are traumatic wounds caused by friction, shear, or blunt force that separates the epidermis from the dermis. They are especially common in older adults with thin, fragile skin and in patients on long-term steroids. Improper tape removal is a frequent cause. Prompt, careful treatment prevents infection and reduces recurrence.
How We Treat It
A care plan built around skin tears / traumatic wounds
Dr. Rizvi classifies each skin tear (Types 1, 2, and 3 on the ISTAP system), repositions the skin flap when viable, and applies an atraumatic, non-stick dressing that protects the wound without traumatizing already-fragile tissue. The plan includes prevention: skin-care routines, barrier creams, protective sleeves, and safe tape-removal techniques for caregivers. Prevention practices align with [AHRQ](https://www.ahrq.gov/) fall- and skin-injury reduction evidence, and infection surveillance follows [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/) wound-care guidance.
- Patients treated
- 3,200+ skin tears treated
- Typical recovery
- 2–4 weeks typical
- Visits
- 2–4 visits
- Outcomes
- Recurrence-prevention focus
Why Patients Choose Dr. Rizvi
What's in the Plan
- ISTAP-classified staging for proper treatment selection
- Non-stick and silicone-based dressings designed for fragile skin
- Caregiver education on safe tape removal and skin-care routines
- Emollient and barrier-cream prescribing to reduce recurrence
- Coordination with home health and assisted living staff for bedside visits
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do skin tears happen more often in older adults?
Skin thins with age, loses elastic and collagen content, and attaches less firmly to the underlying dermis. Medications like long-term corticosteroids further weaken skin. The result is skin that tears easily from minor bumps, tape removal, or transfers in and out of bed or chair.
Can the skin flap be reattached?
Often, yes — if the flap is viable (still connected by a hinge of tissue and not severely damaged), we gently reposition it, approximate the edges, and dress the wound to hold the flap in place. This speeds healing and reduces scarring.
How can family caregivers prevent skin tears?
Keep skin well-moisturized, avoid aggressive scrubbing, use non-adhesive dressings or gentle silicone tape, remove tape carefully (low-and-slow, supporting the skin), pad bed rails and wheelchair edges, and have the person wear long sleeves and pants. Routine skin checks catch small problems before they become wounds.
Ready to talk about skin tears / traumatic wounds?
Same- or next-day appointments. Telemedicine available. Most insurance accepted — call to verify your plan.