Should I remove the bandages from my incisions for good?

[Pisi]

Hello ladies. I am 2 weeks post my lap. I am healing well, no pain, but not so bouncy any more. Just wanted to ask you how long have you kept your incisions covered please? Mine are closed I think since there is no red tissue or open wounds just some scars like you have when your wound is healing. I still keep them covered with waterproof bandages as i do not want to get them wet when showering. I do not know what to do, leave them like this or remove all the bandages and let them breathe hoping all will be ok? Thank you.

[bertie1606]

After two weeks it is fine to leave them off x

[C700]

I’m in exactly the same position, two weeks post op. I’ve read a mixture of advice…some saying keep them covered and some say there’s no need. I’ve had them covered until today but am going to leave them uncovered going forward unless I’m doing something where it might be a sensible precaution to keep them covered, like for example today I’m taking a short haul flight so I’ve covered them. My stitches are still also fully in place.

[Pisi in reply to C700]

Thank you for your reply!

[MD54999]

My consultant removed all my bandages 2 weeks post lap as none were open by then and said it was best to let them heal naturally without coverings at that stage.

[Pisi in reply to MD54999]

Thank you for your reply!

[Sunset-lady]

I would take the dressings off now and don't worry about them getting wet. Let the wounds "breathe" a bit which will help them heal and dry out more so your stitches will eventually come out.

[Pisi in reply to Sunset-lady]

Thank you for your reply. I do not have stitches. I think it was glue. I removed the bandages yesterday.