Doctor removed steri strip at in office today and it took off the scab also (Photo)

Question

I visited Dr’s office today for my 2 weeks post-op follow up. Dr removed the steri strip (which it was intact) on the incision site and scab was also pulled off with the steri strip (like you can see in the picture, right side incision site is pink without scab). I’m really concerned if this will make my incision scars look worse later because it was not come off naturally. And also Dr did not put anything on the incision site and it is now just dry and exposed. And if it is, what action should I take?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear haileykr,based on your photos, your incisions look good. Regarding keeping your incisions covered, every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

N. Bill Aydin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on the pictures, your incisions look as though they are healing very well for being 2 weeks post-op. A little dried blood is what is giving you a scabbed appearance. Removing the steri strips did not contribute to the appearance and should not have any effect on healing. Enjoy your results!

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

From your photographs, it looks like your incisions are healing beautifully. I certainly don't think removing the Steri-Strips at this point would affect you're result.

Benjamin Chu, MD, FACS · Answer

Your incisions seem to be healing fine.  Scabs are just dried blood and should be cleansed.  If there are any slight open areas it should be covered with antibiotic ointment and a small bandaid until its healed.  Just a side note ideally your incision should be directly in your inframammary fold.  Yours is about a cm above it.  As your breasts drop that distance may increase.

Doctor removed steri strip at in office today and it took off the scab also (Photo)

Answers (4)