How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

Question

My ps told me to keep the tape in place for as long as possible and let it peel off naturally. here I am with dirty, cruddy tape 3 weeks later and it still hasn't fallen off.In fact, it seems like it's just getting stickier.I even asked her to change it and put new tape on but she didn't really want to do that for some reason.The tape even stinks and smells like an old cast.I am 1 day short of my 3 weeks.Is it really worth keeping the tape on longer? Will it improve my scars that much more?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

The surgical tape applied after surgery helps keep the incision approximated - making the scar heal nicely. At three weeks If the tape is dirty and falling off - I would recommend removing it. At your next appointment you can always have it replaced. I recommend my patients keep the tape on for at least 4-6 weeks - Replacing it at each follow up appointment.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Generally steri-strips (the white or tan tape put on the day of surgery) is either removed by 1-2 weeks (skin has healed enough by this time) or some surgeons let it fall off on its own.  I generally don't like to have bloody or goopy tape on nice incisions, so I have patients remove it.  Silicone tape is often then used weeks out to help the scar remodel.  This is often used for 3-4 months to help the scar mature.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

You should follow the instructions of your own plastic surgeon relative to tape on the incisions. Scientifically speaking there's no evidence that this has any long-term benefit.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

The tape is most definitely not helping you at this point.  In its condition the is bacteria in the tape which is going to leave you with redness now when it is removed.  I would take it off.

Angela Champion, MD · Answer

I typically leave tape on for 2-3 weeks.  If it's in the same condition as yours, I would remove them.  Every surgeon is different so it would be best to follow your surgeon's instructions as best you can. ac

How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

Answers (8)

Answer: Remove the tapes

Answer: Remove the tapes

Answer: How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

Answer: How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

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How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

Answers (8)

Answer: Remove the tapes

Answer: Remove the tapes

Answer: How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

Answer: How long should I keep my tape in place to reduce scarring?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.