Dismiss Modal

Recovery

After Bypass Surgery: Caring for Your Incision

Choose a preferred language

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.

Featured in

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Make an Appointment

Make an Appointment

Find a Doctor

Find a Doctor

Find a Location

Find a Location

Related Services

Heart & Vascular Center

Related Articles
Read article
Heart Health
After Bypass Surgery: Prevent Swelling in Your Legs

After coronary bypass surgery, it's important to prevent swelling in your legs. Follow these instructions to prevent swelling.

Read article
Heart Health
After Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery: In the Hospital

Learn what to expect in the hospital after you have minimally invasive heart surgery.

Read article
Heart Health
After Bypass Surgery: Getting Up and Out of Bed

Learn how to get up and out of bed after bypass surgery. This is to help protect your incision and healing breastbone.

Read article
Heart Health
After Bypass Surgery: Caring for Yourself

Learn how to care for yourself at home after bypass surgery.