As just banded on Friday. Doc said I could take off bandages today, leaving strips on and I can shower. I am scared when I take bandages off I will rip or pull something! Also, how long before I do not need to cover strips with bandages? Terrified of infection. First laparoscopic surgery so unsure!

I didn't have bandages. At my 1 week post op appt the nurse told me to get the steri strips off, as they can get grungy and smelly. I took a hot shower and ripped them off....didn't pull anything (I am not even sure I had stitches or if the incisions were glued together) Once I took off the steri's I did not cover them at all. I wouldn't pull off your steri strips yet, but start working them off about mid week. I never used bandages.

Thanks. That helps. I am being too paranoid! I just want them off so I can feel a bit less bloated!

I didn't get even steri strips this time. All four incisions were just glued.

With my lap chole... I don't think the steris would have ever fell off!! Just loosen them a lil with each shower.

I took strips off when I came home after spending one day in hospital. Banded on 9/17 the smallest ones are nearly healed. The one where port is at still has glue. Was told not to scrub. You'll wake up and magically they will be gone. No worries.

I was banded wed I took the big bandages off yesterday that would have been Sunday probably could have sooner but I didn't like looking at the incisions and bruising!! I was told to leave the steri strips in place for 7-10 days then remove them. U don't want to take them off to early they are what hold the incisions closed and if the incisions aren't ready they could split open leaving a much bigger scar then anticipated. So use caution when removing them and don't rush it!! Good luck:)