If you’re reading this, you’ve likely undergone a plastic surgery procedure. This article discusses a common but often overlooked issue that may occur post operatively: skin irritations caused by surgical tape.
What’s the Deal with Surgical Tape?
Surgical tape is a crucial part of your recovery process. It helps keep dressings in place, keeps your suture line clean and supports incisions while they heal. Surgical tape can even help minimise scarring. Unfortunately, for some of our patients, prolonged use can cause skin irritation. Don’t worry, though – this is usually manageable and temporary!
The Importance of Taping After Plastic Surgery
You might be wondering why we’re so particular about taping after your plastic surgery procedure. In basic terms, this seemingly simple step is actually crucial to your recovery and results.
Taping after plastic surgery serves several important purposes:
- Supports healing: The tape provides gentle pressure and support to the surgical site, which can help reduce swelling and promote proper healing.
- Minimises scarring: By keeping the incision site flat and supported, taping can help minimise the appearance of scars as they form.
- Protects the incision: The tape acts as a barrier, protecting your incision from external irritants and reducing the risk of infection.
Remember, while taping is important, it’s equally crucial to follow our specific instructions on how long to keep the tape on and how to care for your skin around the taped area. If you experience any unusual discomfort or signs of irritation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the nursing team at VPS. We’re here to ensure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Tape-related Irritations – symptoms to watch for:
How do you know if you’re experiencing a tape-related skin irritation? Here are some signs to look out for:
- Redness or a rash in the area where the tape was applied.
- Itching or burning sensation.
- Skin feeling warm to the touch.
- Small bumps or blisters.
- Peeling or flaking skin once the tape is removed.
Remember, everyone’s skin is different, and you might not experience any irritation at all. However, if you do notice any of the above symptoms, it’s important to let us know.
Treating and Managing Tape Irritations:
If you’re experiencing irritation, don’t panic! Here are some steps we typically recommend:
- Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water. Be gentle when cleaning the area – pat, don’t rub.
- Apply a soothing, hypoallergenic moisturizer to help calm the skin.
- In some cases, we might recommend a mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation.
- Avoid scratching the area, as this can lead to infection.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid further irritation.
- If itching is severe, try applying a cool compress to the area.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to support overall skin health.
Prevention is Key:
While we can’t always prevent irritations entirely, there are steps we can take to minimise the risk:
- Let us know if you have sensitive skin or have had reactions to adhesives in the past.
- Keep the taped area clean and dry.
- Follow our instructions on when and how to change dressings.
- Don’t remove the tape yourself unless instructed – we’ll make sure it’s done properly during your follow-up visits.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Irritation:
If you notice signs of irritation, here’s what you should do:
- Don’t panic – mild irritation is often easily managed.
- Contact our office – we’re here to help and can guide you on the best course of action.
- Don’t apply any new products or medications without consulting us first.
- Take photos of the affected area if possible – this can help us assess the situation.
Alternatives to Traditional Surgical Tape
In some cases, we might consider alternatives to traditional surgical tape:
- Hypoallergenic tapes designed for sensitive skin
- Silicone-based adhesives, which can be gentler on the skin
- Non-adhesive dressings held in place with wraps or bandages
Remember, at Valley Plastic Surgery, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We’re here to support you throughout your recovery journey, including managing any tape-related skin concerns. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help you heal comfortably and achieve the best possible results from your procedure.
Note: Individual results will vary according to several factors, including genetics, age, diet & exercise. All surgeries carry risk & require an appropriate recovery period & aftercare regime which may include wearing compression garments or modifying your lifestyle post-operatively. You should seek a second opinion from a Specialist Surgeon before proceeding. More information about these risks and aftercare can be easily found on our website here:
