Your incisions (cuts) may be bruised, itchy, numb, or sore for the first week. If strips of tape were used to close an incision, your care team will tell you when you can wet and remove them. It's often in about a week. When you shower, gently wash your incisions with warm (not hot) water and soap. Gently pat dry with a clean and soft towel. Do not soak in bathtubs or hot tubs, or go in a swimming pool until your health care provider says it's OK. This is because they affect your blood flow. They also may raise the risk of infections. To help prevent infection, do not use skin lotions, ointments, or other skin products around your incisions, unless your provider tells you to.