Read this handout to learn more on how to care for your incision at home.
Incision Care
Remove the outer dressing (gauze and tape) 48 hours after surgery, before your first shower.
If your incision has Steri-Strips (white tape):
Leave them in place until they fall off on their own.
If they don’t fall off prior to your first follow-up visit, they will be removed at that time.
Mild drainage is normal.
If drainage occurs or clothing causes irritation, you may cover the area with dry gauze.
Otherwise, leave the incision uncovered.
Check your incisions daily.
Hygiene
Wait 48 hours after surgery before your first shower.
After that, take daily showers to reduce infection risk.
Wash gently with mild soap and water.
After cleaning pat dry with a clean towel or let air dry.
Avoid the following until fully healed (4–6 weeks):
Baths
Hot tubs
Swimming
Wound Vac (If Applicable)
A wound vac is a suction dressing that promotes healing by holding the incision edges together and removing fluid from the wound. It will turn off automatically after 7 days or be removed in clinic in 5-7 days. Keep the device charged and do not get it wet.
Stitches
Some stitches dissolve on their own. Some need removal in 1–2 weeks. If removal is needed, a clinic visit will be scheduled.
When to Call
Call if you notice any signs of infections or other symptoms such as:
Bleeding that soaks the dressing
Fever over 100.5°F
Chills or shaking
Foul-smelling drainage
Pus or cloudy drainage (white, yellow, or green)
Nausea or vomiting
New rash
Go to the emergency department or urgent care if you have:
Redness
Increased swelling
Cramping
Uncontrolled pain
Warmth in the arm or leg
Call 911 immediately if you have:
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Images used with permission from Biorender