This is your second question to RealSelf about post operative issues that appear to have NOT been discussed pre operatively with you?? CALL your surgeon for specific instructions. In my practice I remove the dressings at day 2 or 3, but you are not in my practice. So again see your surgeon ASAP.
Thank you for posting your question. It is best to follow your plastic surgeon's post-op instructions. We all have different plans of treatment for after surgery. Typically, I have my patient remove the gauze pad the day after surgery but leave the Steri-strips in place. Hope this helps you but check with your plastic surgeon for her/his advice.