when do these strips of tape come off

do i remove them or does the dr?  and also do i have a couple of stiches in my belly botton? i thought it was dry blood but it got very sensetive when i tried to whipe it out witch it did not come out.... any advice would be helpful teresa

I would not pull off those tapes, let them fall off by themselves which they will do very soon. As for the few stitches, when  will you see your surgeon? He will be able to take them out then, if your appointment is not for a while call the office and ask about removal of the stitches. Good luck and take care Sher

hi sher, thank you, i will wait for the dr. every time i see your pic i think ur my sister. i can't believe how much u look like her. but of course she would n't   be  posting she is and has always been thin. so i do not know why i am always taking a double look. lol. well they say every one has a twin. thanks again teresa

If I am doing the  math correctly, you  have not had your first postop appt with Ehrlich's office yet. You can address all these issues then. Or call as it was suggested and ask. As a bander, you will have lots of contact with the office.... they are use to getting calls and answering questions. That is what they are there for. All legit questions. I agree... do not take off the tape unless they say you can. Is it irritating your skin? And more than likely you do have an incision at your belly button area. I did.. and I think banders do as well.... think that is where the scope enters from... that incisional point.

hey towanda, how are you? i am feeling so good today still hurts to stand up from a sitting position but thats ok everyday will get better.  thank for the answers. i will wait till i see dr e on friday. thanks teresa

As you say... each day will get easier from here on in. Follow protocol... be compliant.. it makes the journey so much easier. The first month is the hardest... yes... sore.. for sure. remember your new pouch is like a baby's... so be gentle and go slowly when moving from stage to stage with your eating. And go to the support group meetings for sure. Please say hello to Anne Mata for me. Tell her that I MISS HER GROUP so much. T.