Yellow cloth was placed in my belly button after surgery-should I remove it now, 5 days post op, or is it safe to leave? (Phoot)

Xeroform gauze is a nonstick dressing commonly placed on incisions. Its removal should be done only at the specific instructions of your own surgeon.

Thank you for your questions and photos.  You should address this directly with your operating surgeon.  He or she wants you to follow a specific protocol, and you do not want to do something that will jeopardize the results of your surgery.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

The gauze that was left by your surgeon is called Xeroform, and it is an antibacterial type of gauze.Don't worry about bacteria growing. Just let your plastic surgeon remove it when he/she sees you next if it hurts when you tug on it. 

The yellow cloth is called Xeroform and is a vaseline coated, antibacterial gauze.  Because each surgeon has their own post operative protocol for wound care that covers showering and dressing changes, I would speak with him/her before removing the gauze.  They may want to do it during one of your post-operative appointments.  Leaving the gauze in place doesn't increase your risk of possible complications

It won't hurt to leave that Xeroform gauze until your scheduled appointment. If it  bothers you, you can call to be seen sooner and it can be removed.  Best wishes. 

First of all, you have a beautiful result after your tummy tuck.  Xeroform is a yellow vaseline impregnated gauze that helps to prevent infection.  You should remove it, it will come off very easily, it will not stick. The vaseline makes it non sticky.

A yellow gauze in your belly button is typically a dressing called zeroform which is impregnated with antibacterial ointment (3% Bismuth Tribromophenate). Every plastic surgeon has their own protocol. Call your plastic surgeon's office and ask him/her if it is alright to remove on your own. Sometimes the gauze, although meant to maintain a moist environment, can stick to sutures or skin, so he /she may want you to come by the office.

I personally remove this gauze when I see my patients post-op day 1. However, every Plastic Surgeon follows different protocol. I would consult with your Plastic Surgeon in person to discuss your questions.

The best is to have your surgeon remove the yellow Xeroform gauze , it is also a perfect moment for your surgeon to check the incisions and woundhealing.

It should be safe to remove the Xeroform (yellow) cloth at this point.  If it is sticking to your incision, ask your surgeon if you can take a shower and remove it.  The water should help stop it from sticking.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.