How can you tell if your incisions are infected if the bandages havn't fallen off yet? My port site is a bit hot, should I remove the bandages?

If the wounds are very hot, and very red or white. If it looks likes it has puss in it then it might be infected. When the body heals it will generate some heat. If you have kept them clean and dry they should not be infected.

John

I took my bandages off at day 2...itching. Thought it was infection; however, it was a sensitivity to the adhesive on the bandages....go figure.

I did have to get a butterfly to hold 1 incison together as it opened up...but all was well.

Infection is usually accompanied by fever, and if it's a wound...redness and puss...or green ness.

Hot is inflamation...which can be irritating. Just watch for symptoms of infection.

Keep us posted on how things are going.

I am having problems with one incision site as well, but it is a small one right under my bra area. That is what started the problem. When I had to start wearing a bra that seemed to cause the problem and now the incision is still open. I went to the dr. yesterday and they removed a stitch that was not dissolving and may have cause some of the problem. I think I will get a butterfly as well and maybe that will help.

My doctor told me that if you see a bright red circle, sunburn red, and it is warm to the touch, that is an infection and MUST be treated aggressively immediately. If you even suspect you have an infection..get it looked at.