Concerns About Healing After Gallbladder Surgery
I recently had my gallbladder removed about ten days ago and wanted to share an update regarding my recovery. Initially, one of the incision sites, where the surgical glue held nicely, looked perfect after the glue came off. However, the glue from another incision has just come off, and I’m a bit concerned about its appearance; it doesn't look very good. I'm wondering if it’s adequate to simply apply butterfly bandages, or if this situation warrants a visit back to my doctor. I’ve cleaned the area using hibiclens and covered it with a band-aid for now while I wait for some guidance. Any advice would be appreciated!
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 4:10:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel concerned about your incision sites after gallbladder surgery. Healing can vary, and it's good that you’re being proactive about your recovery.
When it comes to post-surgical incision care, it is normal for one incision to look different from another as they heal. If the incision with the glue still looks concerning, here are some factors and steps to consider:
Explanation
- Normal Healing: After surgery, it’s normal for incisions to change in appearance. Some redness, swelling, or drainage can occur initially, but these should subside as healing progresses.
- Signs of Infection: Look out for increased redness, swelling, warmth around the incision, or pus-like drainage. These could be signs of infection.
- Butterfly Bandages: They can be helpful for reinforcing an incision and keeping it stable, but they are not always sufficient if the skin edges are widely separated or if there's an infection.
Next Steps
- Inspect the Incision: Check for any signs of infection as mentioned above.
- Use Butterfly Bandages: If the edges of the incision are not pulling apart and there’s no sign of infection, you can apply butterfly bandages to help support the incision. Ensure the area is clean and dry before applying them.
- Keep it Clean: Continue using Hibiclens or a mild soap to gently clean the area around the incision. Avoid any harsh scrubbing.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the incision over the next few days. Take note if you notice any changes, and don’t hesitate to take pictures to track its appearance.
- When to Seek Help: If you notice increasing pain, redness, or discharge, or if you feel unwell (fever, chills), it would be wise to reach out to your doctor sooner rather than later.
It's natural to worry about your healing process, but providing the right care at home can help. Trust your instincts about your body—if you're uncomfortable, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Let me know if you need more information or support!
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