Just a curious question, after the band, do you have to keep the incision area dry? How long do you have to wait to take a bath or swim. Just wondering!

I had to keep the bandages on for three days. Then I was able to shower. 7-10 days later was able to take off the steristrips.

Most people can shower right away yet NOT bathe, it all depends on your doc's instructions. What did he say?

Swimming, remember... people pee in pools. Do you want other people's pee in your newly healing incisions? When everything has scabbed over AND the scabs have fallen off, if everything is closed, looks good, and is not reddened, then you can swim. Usually takes 3 weeks or longer.

My doctor told me to let the strips fall off on their own, and it took some a few days and up to a week for all of them. I could shower the next day, but no swimming or baths for 6 wks.

I tried to take one of my bandages off and freaked out, so I left them all on until my first post-op appt (six days post surgery). I was told to go ahead and shower (not bathe), even if the bandages and steri strips came off. I was freaked out in my first shower because blood kept running out of the bandages, until I realized it was just dried blood being washed away. YOu can leave the bandages on until your first appt., if it's coming up fairly soon.

Thanks for the advice. The main reason I asked about the swimming thing is that my kids love to go to the pool and I am scheduled for July 5 for surgery. After reading the pee thing, I think their dad will be taking them. Good Point!

I had to wait for the strips to fall off on their own....I could take a shower after 24 hours, but no baths....not allowed to be sitting in the water....