How long does it take for incision to be closed enough to prevent infection.

Question

I had the crease incision. I was supposed to leave my plaster/bandages on for three weeks but today (2 weeks since operation) one of the bandages peeled away. I still have one week before I am supposed to remove them. I went to Boots (chemist) and bought wound cleansing wipes and pharmaceutical bandages (like the ones I had on my incisions). I cleaned the wounds, waited till they were dry and then applied the plasters. Just wondering at two weeks If this should be an issue?

Jonathan Saunders, MD · Answer

I was taught that wounds are biologically sealed 6 hrs after the surgery, so whatever inoculum there is has already occurred. I think you will be fine but prob a good idea to check with your doctor

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest that after two weeks it is best to leave the bandages off.  I would not use chemical wipes or reapply the bandages.

Hector Milla, MD · Answer

Hello Ellie. If incision edges are well closed, after 24 hours the wound is allready impermeable, that's why we usually recomend not to remove the gauze until the next day after surgery. The most probable is that you were told not to remove your bandages to diminish tensión on the wound.Regards.

Robert N. Young, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

By two weeks your incisions should be healed well enough not to need any bandages. When we do areolar or under the arm pit incisions and use steri strips, patients often leave them on only until they "fall off", and they do not need replacement. A phone call to your surgeon's office would save you the worry of what to do. We like when our patients err on the side of caution and care to handle their recovery correctly!

How long does it take for incision to be closed enough to prevent infection.

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Answer: How soon can you remove bandages following breast augmentation

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How long does it take for incision to be closed enough to prevent infection.

Answers (4)

Answer: How soon can you remove bandages following breast augmentation

Answer: How soon can you remove bandages following breast augmentation

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