I noticed that my surgeon didn't apply steri strips on my nipples/areola, are steri strips necessary? (Photos)

Question

I had a mommy makeover procedure that included a full TT, MM, BR and lift. I am very satisfied with the results, but I'm wondering if I should buy and apply them myself or should I just wait until my next post op visit...your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Samuel Beran, MD · Answer

When a plastic surgeon closes an incision he uses many different types of sutures to repair both the deep and the superficial layers.  Often time, but not always, after the final layer of sutures he will apply steri-strips to give a little extra support for the first week or two of healing.  The steri-strips are certainly not a necessary component and if your surgeon elected not to use them I would not put them on without checking with your surgeon first.  There may be a reason that he did not use them in your case.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Steri strips are commonly used after surgery to support tissues as they heal.  If your surgeon did not apply them you should not do so without first speaking to her/him.  Generally you will receive instruction on how to care for your incisions at home from your surgeon's office.  It is important to closely follow these guidelines and report any issues.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

I would recommend that you discuss this question with your surgeon as every surgeon has their own respective post op protocol for his/her patients.  Your surgeon is your best resource as he/she is most familiar with your medical history and how you are healing at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Director-Beverly Hills Breast and Body Institute

#RealSelf100Surgeon

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

You should check with your doctor's office as every doctor has different post op protocol. You surgeon would be the best person to answer this question

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, happy to hear you are pleased with your results.  I suggest you call your doctor's office and ask them if there is particular reason they did not use steristrips and then follow their advice.  Good Luck.

I noticed that my surgeon didn't apply steri strips on my nipples/areola, are steri strips necessary? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Ask your surgeon

Answer: Ask your surgeon

Answer: Steri-strips

Answer: Steri-strips

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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

I noticed that my surgeon didn't apply steri strips on my nipples/areola, are steri strips necessary? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Ask your surgeon

Answer: Ask your surgeon

Answer: Steri-strips

Answer: Steri-strips

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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