Post op stitches crease incision. What can I use? (Photo)

Question

I had my 1 week post op appointment yesterday and my surgeon changed the tape (butterfly stitches?) over my scars and said to leave them on for 3-4 weeks but they have already started to come off, what can I use? Do I have to keep my scars covered at all times until my stitches have dissolved completely? Can I get my scars wet in the shower?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. You can likely call your Plastic Surgeon's office for specific instructions regarding washing & incision care. They should be able to replace strips for you or advise you to pick some up at the pharmacy. Until your incisions are totally closed it is important to keep the area clean and keeping them covered for 2-3 weeks can reduce your infection risk. Steri strips are typically able to get wet but I recommend to my BA patients that they avoid baths, swimming pools and hot tubs for two weeks post op. All the best

John McFate, MD · Answer

Every surgeon has different tools to help with scar management.  I typically use skin glues or steri strips, both which only need to cover the incision for 2-3 weeks.  After that point, we start scar therapy which can range from silcone gel sheeting to vitamin e oil and manyothers.  I think silicone based products normally help the scar heal the best.  Discuss all of this with your surgeon as they can explain the reasons for their particular post operative plan before starting any of the other substances.

Ravi Somayazula, DO · Answer

Every plastic surgeon is slightly different as far as how he or she manages the incision. Therefore it is best to ask your surgeon. In my practice I use all dissolvable sutures with dermbond surgical glue. I have the patient remove the dressing and bra after 2 days at which point they can shower. Once the dressing covering the incision is removed I leave it open to dry, covered only by the surgical bra.Best wishes

Tal T. Roudner, MD, FACS · Answer

You should speak to your surgeon, every surgeon has his protocol. I change the dressings at 3 days and completely remove them at 1 week. For IMF incisions i use dissolvable sutures.Good luck!

Brian Arslanian, MD · Answer

Its best to speak with your surgeon.  Every surgeon is different in their postop plan.  If the tape is coming off and you can get new tape from the pharmacy, then you can remove and replace.  Good Luck"The above answer has been given without seeing this
patient and cannot be substituted for actual in-person examination and medical
advice; it is only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical
professional for appropriate care."

Post op stitches crease incision. What can I use? (Photo)

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Post op stitches crease incision. What can I use? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Dressings after Breast Augmentation Surgery

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