Lap. incisions

I have three of them. I just had my surgery Friday 12-12-2008 and I was wonder how long it takes for them to heal? I've noticed 2 of mine look like they have fresh blood on them, is that normal?

Hello,
I had three small incisions as well. It takes maybe a couple of weeks for them to heal on the outside, but remember it takes longer for things to heal on the inside. I would say if you are concerned with the fresh blood on the incisions you should call your DR. I had some drainage from one incision but it was just a little bit, and only lasted a couple of days. Keep them dry and from irritation, and you should be fine. Follow your DR's orders and take care.

Thanks. I still have the strips they put on it with a clear bangage over it but i can see there is a small amount of blood in there. The one on my belly button is the one I'm worried most about.

One looks like its more dried blood and the other two look more fresh discharge. Should I take the clear bandage off so it dries or leave it on?

My discharge from my LSH said

The following surgery side effects are normal and should not cause you worry:
Slight oozing blood or watery discharge from the incision.

and

Incision Care:
You may put bandages on your incisions. They may be taken off or replaced as necessary.
Showers or baths are ok but do not scrub the area of the incisions. Pat the area dry with a towel.

I had my surgery on a Thursday and took the bandages off Saturday before I showered. There was some dried blood, but the incisions already looked pretty good at that point. I put bandages back over them for a couple of days if I was wearing jeans or something that rubbed against them. But for the most part, if I had on my "comfy" pants or shorts, I left the bandages off.

The best advice is to follow any instructions that you got from your doctor. If you have any doubts or concerns, give your doc a call.

What they all said... call your doctor's office if you feel something isn't right.

My strips feel off by themselves about a week or so after I got home. During my 2 week follow-up exam the doctor also noted that my belly button stitches had not dissolved yet. She said some people just take longer and I was one of them.

Everyone is different but again, call the doctor and ask. It can't hurt and it may make you feel better. Plus that's what they are there for.

I called my dr. today. She told me to take the strip off and clean it and keep it dry. She did tell me to put a strip back on it or a bandaid. I got back on Christmas eve for my post op unless something happens before then..
Thanks girls