4 Weeks PO, Should I peel off tape on incision or let it come off on its own?

Question

The tape that covers the stitches is starting to peel off should I go ahead a take it off or let it keep peeling on its own it has been 4 weeks

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

It is probably fine to peel them off now but I just wanted to make sure that the breast was not red as it almost appears in this photo.

Asif Pirani, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

The best person to ask is your PS.  If you were my patient, I'd tell you to leave tapes on until they fall off on their own.  I then have my patient apply paper tape for several weeks to help speed recovery of the incision.  Again, ask your PS what they prefer as it's their surgical site to manage.Best,

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Tape peeling off at this point probably can be gently peeled off. I usually have patients wear steri-strips or tape for 6 weeks.

Jennifer Harrington, MD · Answer

I suspect removing the tape will be just fine, but always best to call your Plastic Surgeon's office and ask them what their protocol is. Usually when it starts to peel it's ready to come off.Best,Jennifer Harrington MD

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question and photograph.  I typically allow  tape dressings like Steri-Strips to just fall off as they often do  when showering.  I do not think it would harm anything by taking it off but it is always good to check with your plastic surgeon for instructions.

4 Weeks PO, Should I peel off tape on incision or let it come off on its own?

Answers (6)