After Breast Implants Taking off Tape?

Usually the scars do fine with nothing other than sun avoidance. Since the scars under the breast rarely see sun, its easy! However, if using a silicone pad or silicone gel prevented you from having to have a scar revision would you do it? It usually isn't a lot of money and I know the data shows it is a good preventative measure, but again these scars usually do fine with nothing. The silicone pads/patches such as scar away and many others, are supposed to be worn for up to 3 months at least 12 hours a day preferably 23 hours a day to make the most difference. I would suggest using it just to prevent any scar problems, but as many have already said, the scars usually do fine. There are several products out there though that don't do anything so I would look for a silicone patch/pads or 100% silicone gel.

Just like implant type and
procedure preferences, every surgeon has their own method of post-op
maintenance and care. Follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions and don't
hesitate to follow up with additional concerns or questions. It sounds like you're
doing well. Gently cleaning areas and applying scar ointment is common
practice, but don't get carried away with too many additional oils or lotions.

It’s
important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative routine and instructions
following surgery. If you have questions
regarding post-operative care you shouldn’t hesitate to contact your surgeon.In our
practice, we usually leave Steri-Strips in place for 2 to 3 weeks following
breast augmentation.After 3 weeks, we
remove the Steri-Strips and start local wound care.In most cases, we recommend massage of the
scars.This is often combined with Vitamin
E ointment or Mederma.It’s
important to realize that each surgeon has his own post-operative routine.For this reason, it’s important to follow
your surgeon’s directions closely.

This is a very understandable question. Thank you for putting it in front of the Real Self community. Every surgeon advises on his or her own post-op care instructions. Thus, the first line of action is to follow your surgeon's recommendation. Your relationship with your plastic surgeon doesn't end on day of surgery, as you know. The practice and the surgeon follow you through your post-op process. Following their recommendations is important!

We like for tape to stay on for a couple weeks if possible.  The paper tape helps the incision heal flat and nicely as it takes some of the tension off the incision.  You can apply a scar gel like SkinMedica Scar Gel over the tape and the gel will sink in and allow for the properties to take effect.  Once the tape is removed, we recommend using the SkinMedical Scare Gel twice a day for 6 months to allow for the best scarring possible.  

Our
practice recommends that you continue using the paper tape for 2-3months
following your procedure. Micropore tape works by putting compression on the
scar (which helps it to heal flat) and by supporting the scar (which helps keep
it from widening). Most patients will take the tapes off in the shower (getting
the tapes wet makes it easier to remove) then wash the incision with mild soap
and water. Once dry they will apply new tape and do the same thing 5-7 days
later.


If
you become irritated from the tapes or you don’t like wearing/changing them,
then you can use a medical grade scar cream like SkinMedica’s Scar Recovery
gel, or an over the counter product like Mederma. Antibiotic cream is not
needed unless you have an area of delayed healing along the incision but you
can use a warm wash cloth or adhesive remover pad to remove the tape residue.

You should always ask your surgeon but I am not a fan of such products as the scars usually heal fine.  I suggest such products only if poor scarring is appreciated or if scar revisions are done.  Otherwise my philosophy is 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' and only the manufacturers of such products benefit when it becomes routine to use.

I usually like my patients to wear the tape for 3-6 weeks. It is best to ask you surgeon what he prefers.

Specific questions such as these are often addressed in your preop packet. Otherwise a call to your surgeon is more appropriate, as each surgeon will have his/her own particular instructions. 

All the best. 

For every surgeon who answers, you are likely to get a different answer.  This should tell you that in the end, it really does not matter.  Your body will usually heal up very well no matter what.  That said, you should follow the directions that you were given and if not you might check with your surgeon.I hope that helps.Best regards.