How long to keep incisions taped after Breast reduction?

Question

I am 16 days post-op after a reduction. My PS removed my steri-strips today and instructed me to leave the incisions un-taped from now on. I am curious- how long do you instruct your patients to keep replacing their steri- strips or tape on the incisions? At what stage in the recovery do your patients begin being tape-free?

Michael A. Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you very much for your question.Every surgeon has their own protocols for how long they'd like to keep the incisions taped.  I don't see any harm in having incisions taped for longer periods of time, and actually favor it (I think it leaves a better scar).  If I can have my patients wear the tape for 3 months, I prefer that (not required, but it's preferred).  Congratulations on your reduction surgery.  Best of luck!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

I
usually have my patients wear paper tape on their #breast incisions for several
weeks, changing them every several days. The sutures are under the skin and
dissolve so that they do not leave any marks.After several weeks I have my patients use a scar cream such as Biocorneum
to allow the scars to fade as much as possible. On occasion, we may recommend laser treatments to improve the healing.If you
have #breast redness, swelling, drainage or odor, it is important to call the
office and speak with the doctor or medical staff. You may need to be seen in
the office and evaluated.

Elliot Hirsch, MD · Answer

I generally tell my patients to leave the strips on until they fall off on their own.  This usually takes between 2-4 weeks.  Once the steri strips are off, I recommend using scar gel.  Alternatively, I will occasionally use a skin adhesive on the incisions which also lasts around a month or so.

How long to keep incisions taped after Breast reduction?

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