How do I care for my incision at home?
Nate Deisler- Check with your surgeon on the timing of your first shower following the procedure. You will likely have to wait a few days. (But you can take sponge baths.)
- When you are able to shower, face away from the shower spray.
- Don’t scrub the incision area. Just run soap and water over it.
- After showering, gently dry the incision areas with a clean towel.
- Wear the abdominal binder until your surgeon instructs you otherwise.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing.
- Expect some drainage from the surgical site.
- Keep your surgical tape in place—you might be instructed to clean around it with small amounts of hydrogen peroxide.
- Avoid removing the steri-strips or skin glue over your incisions. These will disappear with time. If you have stitches, keep them as clean and dry and possible—they will either dissolve or your surgeon will decide when to remove them.
- Sleep with your head and chest slightly elevated above the level of your lower body—this will help with swelling.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Take short walks each day but don’t return to an exercise routine until your care team approves it.
- Avoid sexual activity for three to four weeks.
