Ask Ruggie

Dear Ruggie, why don't silcone strips that are used post plastics actually adhere? Why are they always falling off in the most inappropriate places? Did that happen to you? What was your post plastics scar regimen?

1) Adhesives for human skin is tough.  The problem is there's nothing "perfect"; it's either too strong or not strong enough.  Either things are coming off on their own or you're ripping skin off when you take the product off.  (This is a great testament to our skin - elastic but resilient).  Paper tape comes off and the plastic tape is worse than a band aid.  If you find a better product, then good luck!

2) Yes, definitely happens to me.  After applying the silicone strips, I'll use paper tape to secure them in the more 'bendy' areas of the LBL region.  Then, I take a 4" Ace bandage, and wrap that around my waist to hold the strips and bandages down.  I find the Ace bandage stops a lot of the rubbing off my clothing does.  Honestly, the whole thing is annoying.

3) See #2.  I buy ScarAway strips, keep them on 24 hours, shower, put on a second set after the shower and then wash and dry the first set for the next day.  A pack lasts about a month if you clean them with care.  I'm still wearing them, although I hope to stop this month.

2) I got 2" wide pape tape that covers well and needs little vertical strips to hold hem in place. The ace routine never occurred to me. Yes, all annoying. My surgeon said six months of annoyance for better results.

3). Washing in dish soap has strips cheer better than other soap because it isn't oily. I read that someone washed the strips when she showered, then put them back on. I've tried it, not convinced. I like that it's possible to shower in paper tape. I have armsm legs and breats to cover as well as LBL. Will be happy when the process is over!

Six months of scar care??? Oh my....you guys really have major stamina. I was getting annoyed at the little surgical tape on my VSG incisions within 2 days....couldn't wait to rip them off.

It's a long process. I had my plastics exactly one year ago, then had my arms and thighs revised Sept 27th, so I'm starting all over again. UGH!

Where the hell did you find 2" thick paper tape?  I need that!

2" wide, not thick. Found it on amazon. 6 rolls for under $10.

Why did reading this thread make me post TWO TIMES about junk food??

What's your favorite brand post-op?  I'm super excited to buy my first pair of Hudson jeans and a Burberry trench when I get to goal and a Miu Miu bag and...

Oh well I've become quite of fan of Lucky Brand jeans, though they are pretty pricey.  Still, I look kinda good in them and they're so soft on the inside.   I'm in love with Express Men, and also like The Gap and Eddie Bauer.