Can Steri Strips Stay on Too Long?

Can Steri Strips Stay on Too Long

Steri strips (butterfly strips) are adhesive tapes that can be used to close wounds. They’re typically applied by a healthcare provider and then removed at your follow-up appointment.

They usually fall off on their own within 7 to 10 days. But sometimes, the adhesive can be too strong and the strips won’t come off. In those cases, you may need to call your doctor or nurse to ask them to remove the strip on your behalf.

Often, your doctor will use these tapes to close wounds in places where stitches can’t be used. This may include the head, neck or other areas where there is a risk of scarring if the stitches are left in place.

When they’re on, the steri strips help the wound heal and keep it clean so that it doesn’t get infected or develop any infection. They also make it easier for the skin to grow back together and prevent a scab from developing over the wound.

Can I Shower After My Procedure?

You can shower a few hours after your procedure, but make sure to dry your wound before you leave. Your healthcare provider will let you know how long to wait.

If the wound hasn’t scabbed over yet, it might be best to leave the strips in place. This can help it heal faster and reduce the chance of developing an infection or a rash.

Apply the steri strips over your cut with a little pressure to ensure that they stick. Don’t stick them on too tight or they might cause your wound to open.

Don’t remove the steri strips before your doctor gives you the OK to do so, but if you do need to, it’s not too hard. First, peel one end of each strip away and then pull them towards the wound.

Repeat this process on the other side of the wound to completely close it. Do this for as many strips as needed to cover the entire cut, being sure to hold each strip down with a bandage.

How to Remove Sterile Strips

If the steri strips are stuck on your skin, you can try applying a solution of water and peroxide. This will help loosen the adhesive that holds the strips on your skin. You can then use a washcloth to remove the steri strips and the adhesive.

This can be done twice a day. You might have to do this a few times before the strip comes off on its own.

You can also try soaking the washcloth in warm water and soap for about 60 seconds. This will help loosen the adhesive and allow you to remove it without the washcloth tearing or becoming soiled.

Your surgeon may recommend you wait to remove the steri strips until they’re ready, but they can be removed sooner than this if your skin isn’t ready to take them off. You can also ask your doctor about a moist, non-adhesive dressing like Xeroform that doesn’t have any adhesive on it and can be easily removed.