Was banded Oct 19th.... I have strips originally put on and no staples. They have a clear sticker over them. I was told to let them fall off on their own. But I have taken off two so far. One was itchy and irritating the skin, the other is higher up on my stomach and rubbed off by my bra. I have placed a large band aid over this one. Seems just fine so far. Cleaning them with bactine and neosporin everyday. I am keeping the rest on to prevent scaring.