Butterfly stitches, often called Steri-Strips or wound closure strips, are thin, adhesive bandages used to hold the edges of a minor wound together. Their primary purpose is to help promote healing by keeping the skin approximated, which can also reduce the visibility of scarring. These strips are a common alternative for small, shallow cuts with clean edges, sometimes used in place of traditional sutures or after stitches are removed.
Understanding Water and Butterfly Stitches
It is advisable to keep butterfly stitches dry to ensure their effectiveness and support proper wound healing. While some Steri-Strips are water-resistant, they are not entirely waterproof. Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken their adhesive, causing them to loosen or peel off prematurely and compromising their ability to keep wound edges closed.
A moist environment created by wet strips can also increase the risk of bacterial growth and potential infection, especially if moisture becomes trapped against the healing wound. For surgical wounds, healthcare providers may advise waiting 24 to 48 hours before getting them wet.
Practical Tips for Keeping Them Dry
To protect butterfly stitches from water, consider specific methods during showering and other activities. When showering, minimize direct water impact on the strips; adjusting the showerhead or using a handheld shower can help. Covering the wound area with waterproof gauze or plastic wrap can create a protective barrier.
Taking quick showers with lukewarm water helps limit moisture exposure and prevents the adhesive from loosening due to heat. Baths, swimming, and hot tubs should be avoided entirely, as submerging the wound can lead to premature detachment of the strips and increase infection risk. If the edges of the strips begin to curl, carefully trimming them with clean scissors can help prevent them from catching and peeling further.
What to Do If They Get Wet
If butterfly stitches accidentally become wet, take prompt action. Avoid rubbing the wet strips, as this can cause them to peel off or become damaged. Instead, gently pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel or gauze. Allowing the strips to air dry can also help them regain some adhesion.
Assess whether the strips are still securely in place and effectively holding the wound edges together. If the strips lift significantly or detach, do not attempt to re-adhere them. In such cases, or if the wound reopens, applying a new set of strips might be necessary, ensuring the area is clean and completely dry beforehand.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a healthcare professional under specific circumstances regarding your butterfly stitches and wound. Contact a healthcare provider if you observe signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, or any pus or foul-smelling discharge. Persistent or increasing pain at the wound site also warrants medical attention.
Seek medical advice if the butterfly stitches come off too early and the wound reopens, or if it begins to bleed again. Any concerns about the wound’s healing progress, or if it appears not to be closing properly, should also prompt a medical evaluation.