Cesarean Section Incision Care
An abdominal incision is most commonly closed with small skin staples that are usually removed two to three days after surgery. Steri-StripTM skin closures are applied after the staples are removed to keep the skin edges together during the final stage of healing. These skin closure strips should begin peeling off seven to 10 days after application. Please leave them on until they come off on their own. You may shower only; please do not take a tub bath until cleared by your doctor. Pat the incision area dry after getting out of the shower.
A dressing over the incision is not necessary. The incision may feel firm and lumpy as it heals. Any signs of infection such as extreme redness, drainage, swelling, pain or a fever exceeding 100.4 degrees F (or 38 degrees C) should be reported to your doctor.