Hi - just had laparoscopic right open hemicolectomy around 2 weeks ago. I have 4 incision wounds with dissolvable sutures and glue.
Can anyone advise when it is safe to take a shower bandage free?
i currently apply my waterproof dressings before a shower, and am mindful not to oversaturate this area during my shower - but not sure when I can actually start getting these wounds wet.
Apologies for the daft question. 
Hi SoniBee,
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. I’m Rachel one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Macmillan Support Line. I’m glad to see that you’ve joined our Bowel Cancer Forum and hope you’re finding it a supportive place to share ideas and information with others in a similar situation.
Firstly, can I reassure you that there aren’t any daft questions, it’s great that you’re reaching out for information.
Post operative advice about dressings and wound care tends to vary from hospital to hospital and the type of surgery and wound closure used. If you were given any written information before your discharge, there may be advice in there about when you can get your wounds wet or a contact number to call for advice. If not, you could contact your clinical nurse specialist (CNS) if you have one.
The NHS site has general information about getting back to normal after surgery, which includes advice about washing.
As I said, this is general information so please do check with your own hospital team for specific advice. If you have any concerns about your wounds or how they are healing, the practice nurse at your GP surgery can also offer advice.
I hope this information is helpful and wish you well with your ongoing recovery.
Best wishes
Rachel
Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref RC/JH
