Hello, I had my op on Friday 28 th March.
My wound has been sutured, steri- stripped and glued, then a plaster placed over the site. I am able to shower and I’m wondering if I take off the plaster and if so when?
My next appointment is 23rd April
Hi nutmeg1
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Hi nutmeg1
I had the same dressings as you, I was told to leave it on for 2 weeks but not to get it wet then to take the dressing and steristrips off myself.
H nutmeg,
I was also told to leave the dressings on for 2 weeks and keep them dry. Had a routine district nurse visit after 3 days and she changed one (just because it was awkwardly placed more than anything). Had my post op nurse appointment 10 days after surgery and she removed all the dressings and steri strips then.
Best wishes for your recovery x
Hi nutmeg1,
Thank you for posting.
The general purpose of a wound dressing is to cover the wound to protect it and help prevent infection whilst healing takes place. We hear from many people asking for advice on how to manage wounds after surgery for breast cancer. Wound care and dressings vary from hospital to hospital and surgeons often have their own preference on how long dressings stay on for. It’s important you speak to your breast care nurse or treatment team to check when to remove the plaster.
As @yorkshirelass1 and @greenqueen mention dressings are often left for up to 7-14 days.
You may find this booklet on recovering from your operation helpful. We also offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
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Best wishes
Grete
Breast Care Nurse
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