Is there a less painful way to remove the surgical tape?

Question

I am 8 days post op and I got told by my surgeon to remove my tape every two days and put new tape on, it was my first time changing it today it really hurt taking the tape off, now my right one is in agony but only on the incision(scar) and my left one feels fine. Should I be cleaning it when I change the tape to stop infection? And should it be changed every two days? Because when I took it off The scabs came of with it. Also is there a painless way to remove the tape

Nathan W. Patterson, MD, FACS · Answer

The short answer is that there are adhesive remover products which might make tape removal less painful.  The more thorough response would be why are you having to remove the tape and replace it every 2 days?  There may be a good reason for that but I cannot think of it.  I would contact your surgeon and let them know you are having pain.  They will probably want to see you.  They may just ask you to stop applying tape at all.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I have my patients remove their tape 5 to 7 days after surgery and leave them off. Ask your surgeon these questions as undoubtedly he or she would have patients who have had a similar experience as you did with multiple removal of tapes.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Paul W. Papillion, MD · Answer

You may have a sensitivity to the tape and may need another option. Also, some tape you can leave on for a longer amount of time. I would discuss this issue with your PS. Good Luck.

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

I usually have patients try to maintain their steristrips for 2-3 weeks. I have them pat dry and blow dry till I want the strips off. At that time I have them remove strips in the shower to minimize pain. You need to inquire if your surgeon really wants you to keep changing your tape. Good luck.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

Usually if you have pain you shouldnt do whatever is causing the pain. I would ask your PS for advice as it is he/she that is dictating the postop regime.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

There is no need to remove the tape unless your surgeon wants you to.  I usually remove tape 2 weeks after surgery.   If it starts to come off earlier, I have the patient trim what comes off.

Is there a less painful way to remove the surgical tape?

Answers (6)