7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood? (photo)

Question

I am 7 days post op today, and I live 9 hours away from my surgeon. I flew to a much more credible town and doctor to have a lift and full tummy tuck done. Anywho, I had a large piece of "plastic" (to me) hanging underneath my left breast just now and remembering my doctor say I could remove the tape when it started falling off, I did just that. Well, a large dark (blood?) spot plus the tape came off leaving a bit of a gap and it was bleeding lightly. What the heck did I do!?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Some bleeding after steristrip removal at 7 days is not particularly concerning.  In the absence of hematoma, fluid collection, infection, large wound separation, or necrosis, the area should heal well.

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi! Thank you for your question,

	
	I am Dr. Speron, a proud member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).  I am also certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

	
	Small amounts of oozing and bleeding are very common after breast lift surgery. Should heavy bleeding occur, contact your board certified plastic surgeon or your medical office right away.

	
	As for the gap, it will take time to heal however I would advise that you visit your board certified plastic surgeon for a follow up on post op care instructions.

	
	I have provided a link below for additional information and before and after pictures.
	
	If you have any further questions, please feel free to call us at 847.696.9900.
	Best of luck and have a great day!

	
	Regards,
	Dr. Speron

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question, I do not see any large wound, but such concerns are best addressed by calling your surgeon, only he/she knows what is normal with his/her procedures, good luck.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears OK in photo but text your surgeon a few photos of this issue for guidance ASAP! Best in your recovery.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

Hello Newbie 322,

	The best would be to call your doctor and send him this very photo. It does not look alarming  but you are best served by hearing it directly from your surgeon. I think you will do fine in the long run.

7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: 7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood?

Answer: 7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood?

Answer: Wound problems ater breast lift

Answer: Wound problems ater breast lift

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7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: 7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood?

Answer: 7 Days PO, and Steri Strip Came off Leaving Gap + Blood?

Answer: Wound problems ater breast lift

Answer: Wound problems ater breast lift

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.