How to clean tummy tuck, breast lift and lipo incisions?

Every surgeon has a different method of wound care. Most would defer this question to your original surgeon as any variation from his technique can compromise your scars. i ask my patients to use Melarase twice daily to reduce pigmentation in most cases. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

Management of your wounds is the responsibility of your surgeon. In my practice I permit the patients to shower a couple of days after the operation were they can clean the incisions carefully and then redress them.

All plastic surgeons will have their own post-operative instructions.  These vary from surgeon to surgeon.  As far as a tummy tuck, you will likely have a pain pump for at least 5 days and will not be able to bathe.  But, consult your physician for his/her specific guidelines.

Your surgeon is the one to whom this should be addressed. The surgeon knows you, knows what was done, and has followed your recovery, and none of us have those advantages. 

All the best. 

Every surgeon has different regimens and it is best to ask yours. I have patients wear steri-strips for 2-3 weeks and sometimes longer.  

You should follow your plastic surgeons suggestions for wound care after a surgical procedure.  In general washing with soap and water after a few days is recommended.  

Every surgeon has his/her preferences, and most options work great. There is no set right way to do this. My own preference is to NOT use tape at all. I clean the incisions with hydrogen peroxide once a day and apply Bacitracin ointment and redress with ABD dressings applied without wrinkles. The ointment is stopped after 5 days or earlier if a rash appears. Bathing is allowed after the drains are removed. There are no stitches to be removed. This works well and is quite easy and simple - really! Good luck with your recovery.

You will be much better off having this question answered by your plastic surgeon who knows your situation best, is aware of your progress ( and whether or not you are experiencing any complications)  and is ultimately responsible for your care. Receiving  postoperative care advice online  can only be confusing and/or dangerous.

 Best wishes.

Dear Lisse,

Thank you for your post.  Every surgeon has their own preferrences, but I have my patients leave the tape that I put on during surgery for two weeks.  I then take the tape off in the office and wash the area with soap and water, dry and replace the tape.  I feel this protects the incision somewhat from stretching. Best Wishes,

Pablo Prichard, MD