When can I go swimming?

gingin · July 4, 2008

Hi everyone...just wondering when it is safe to go swimming...I had surgery on 6/26/08 and this hot weather is killing me!!

Also...when did your steri strips fall off/did you take them off? Its been over a week for me and there is no sign that they are ever coming off my incisions!

Thanks!

Camel_Cracker · July 4, 2008

My surgeon said it was ok to swim 2 weeks post op. My steristrips started falling off after 4 days and were totally off within 6 days. I think it's because I was sweating and walking a lot (TEXAS weather). They got itchy after a couple of days and my cuts were healed very quickly. Don't make the mistake of using Maderma too soon because it burns.

MUSIC MOM · July 4, 2008

Hi gingin! I was banded on the 24th and didn't have steri strips - I did ask the Dr. when I could go swimming - he said to give it 2 weeks. Hope this helps - I am just counting the days! It is hot here too.

HeatherO · July 4, 2008

Definitely don't take off the steri-strips, just let them fall off when they are ready. I had one come off earlier and my scar there is wider and pinker in that area.

I was told not to swim until 4 weeks out. Best to call the doctor and ask. Also, if your wounds look like they could be open at all or if you have any drainage, don't go at all until they are closed.

I started to use some liquid bandages (maybe it was called new skin or something similar) when I started spending more time in the Water. The Water doesnt seem to affect it at all. It worked well for me.