Recent Mommy Makeover, should Tummy Tuck incision be covered, or uncovered? (photo)

Question

I'm on my 7th day post op my TT is incision is uncovered but I see most people have it covered, I called my drs office and they said his approach is an uncovered incision. yesterday incision felt in some parts a bit more than warm and a little painful. I called them again and they said its normal. I covered it when I took my first shower very well. Should I be worried? what is really the difference of covering it or not?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

I uncover the wounds the first day after tummy tuck, but there are steri strips in place until 5 days.  After that, it is completely uncovered. You should absolutely not be covering it to shower.  The surface of the wound needs to be cleaned.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It depends on the surgical technique applied during your procedure and your plastic surgeon's preference. I suggest you contact your surgeon or their medical staff and further inquire. At any time, you have any concerns about your healing or recovery, it's best to contact your plastic surgeon  sooner than later,  to prevent any possible infections or #healing complications.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

There is a range of wound care practice after surgery.  In my practice the wound is kept covered until there are no draining or open areas, after which time a dressing can still be worn for comfort if the patient wishes.  Most incisions are covered with steri-strips or occasionally with tissue adhesive for 1-2 weeks so even after the dressing is removed there is some incision protection.

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

Nice result! Every surgeon is different. I personally use paper tape to help protect the skin edges from catching on the garment. Your surgeon may have used Dermabond, which does not require any cover. Best to stay with what they instruct and you will do fine.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

In incision that is not draining does not really need to have a dressing. Some surgeons have regimens that are particular to their practice and you should follow your surgeon's particular advice.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

We all have our own recommendations depending upon what sutures were used and other things. I usually recommend taping for 6 weeks, but I presume you looked at your surgeon's before and after photos and found the scars acceptable so there would be no reason not to follow his or her advice.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Covering or not covering is a practice style.  It can also be based on your healing process.  You should not have much concern if you are healing well.  Please follow your surgeon's advice.

Guy Watts, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) · Answer

I usually keep the incision covered for about 10-14 days. Every surgeon will have slight variations in their procedure and post operative care. RegardsDr Guy Watts

Ronald Levine, MD · Answer

Incision care is really a surgeon-specific thing. Therefore, if your surgeon recommends that you leave your incision uncovered, it best to follow their advice.However, please monitor your incision closely. If the warmth is accompanied by discharge or redness, please have your surgeon see it.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Please follow your surgeon's advice about wound care and dressings. Every surgeon has his/her own protocol based upon types of sutures, glue, and tapes used.

Recent Mommy Makeover, should Tummy Tuck incision be covered, or uncovered? (photo)

Answers (18)