The Purpose of Surgical Skin Adhesive
Surgical skin adhesive, often referred to as tissue glue, is a modern method for closing surgical incisions or lacerations. This liquid adhesive is typically composed of cyanoacrylate compounds, which polymerize rapidly upon contact with the skin’s moisture to form a strong, flexible bond. Its function is to hold the edges of the wound together precisely, facilitating the body’s natural healing process. It is frequently used as an alternative or an adjunct to traditional sutures, staples, or adhesive tapes.
Surgical glue provides several benefits, including a faster application process and eliminating the need for a follow-up appointment to remove hardware. It acts as a protective, waterproof barrier over the incision site, sealing the wound against external contaminants and offering microbial protection. By keeping the wound edges approximated and protected, the glue supports optimal healing and may contribute to a better cosmetic outcome with minimal scarring.
Risks of Premature Glue Removal
You should not peel the glue off your incision. The surgical adhesive is an active medical device designed to provide tensile support to the healing tissue. Premature removal, such as picking or peeling the glue, carries significant medical risks that can compromise recovery and the long-term result.
The most immediate danger is wound dehiscence, which is the separation or opening of the incision line. The underlying tissue may not have fully regained the necessary strength to remain closed, especially within the first five to ten days post-procedure. Forcibly removing the glue strips away this external support, placing tension on the fragile, newly forming tissue beneath. This separation can require further medical intervention and significantly prolong the healing timeline.
Picking at the glue also creates a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the vulnerable wound bed. Disturbing the sterile, protective seal introduces the risk of infection, a complication that can be serious. Furthermore, disrupting the healing process can negatively affect the final appearance of the scar. Peeling the glue can damage the delicate regenerating epidermal layer, leading to a wider, thicker, or more noticeable scar.
Essential Incision Care While the Glue is Intact
Care should focus on maintaining the glue’s integrity and avoiding premature loosening. Keep the incision site clean and dry; most healthcare providers permit gentle showering after the first 24 to 48 hours. When showering, allow water and mild, unscented soap to run gently over the area, but avoid scrubbing or directly rubbing the glue.
After showering, pat the area completely dry with a clean towel; do not rub the incision. Avoid fully submerging the incision, meaning you must refrain from baths, hot tubs, and swimming pools as advised by your medical team. Soaking the glue can cause it to soften and detach before the wound is ready, which is why quick showers are the preferred cleaning method.
Certain topical products must be strictly avoided as they can chemically interact with and dissolve the adhesive. Do not apply lotions, creams, ointments, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol directly over the glue-covered incision. These substances weaken the bond, causing the glue to lift and compromising the wound closure. Protect the site from friction by avoiding tight clothing or activities that cause excessive stretching or tension across the incision line.
Expected Timeline for Natural Glue Shedding
Surgical glue remains in place only for the duration necessary for the skin’s surface layer to heal. The natural shedding process is tied to the body’s normal skin cell turnover cycle. The adhesive bonds to the outermost layer of dead skin cells, and as this layer naturally exfoliates, the glue begins to detach.
The typical timeframe for the adhesive to begin flaking and falling off is usually between five and ten days post-application, though some glue may remain for up to two or three weeks depending on the location and the patient’s individual healing rate. Incisions over joints or areas of frequent movement may see the glue detach sooner due to constant stretching and friction. Conversely, glue in less mobile areas may adhere for a longer period.
The glue will shed gradually, often resembling a dry, crinkled scab that flakes away, rather than peeling off in a single piece. Continue to allow this process to happen naturally without interference. If small pieces remain past the expected timeline, and your medical provider confirms the incision is well-healed, they may suggest gently rubbing the area with petroleum jelly to encourage the final bits to come away.