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After Bypass Surgery: Caring for Your Incision

Your incisions may itch or feel sore, tight, or numb for a few weeks after the surgery. These are all normal signs of healing. Some bruising around the incisions is also normal.

To care for your incisions:

  • Wash them gently with warm water and a mild soap once it's okay with your doctor to do so. Gently pat them dry. Don't soak the incisions or keep them in water, such as in a bathtub, hot tub, or swimming pool.

  • To help prevent infection, don't use any lotions or creams near the incisions, unless your doctor tells you to do so.

  • Many incisions have small strips of tape to support the wound-healing process. After several days, they may fall off as they are no longer needed. Don't remove them before this.

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Steven Kang MD
Date Last Reviewed: 5/1/2025
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