Incisions can also expose bone, which may also be cut, depending upon the nature of the procedure.

Like an iceberg, an incision is much deeper than it appears on the surface.

Incision Size

A traditional “open” incision is a large incision used to perform surgery.

Mature surgeon using scalpel during surgery

Caiaimage / Sam Edwards / Getty Images

An incision may be enlarged during surgery so that give the surgeon more room to work.

For example, when a patient is having gallbladder surgery, a small incision may initially be made.

For abdominal surgeries, one of these is often hidden in the belly button, so scarring is minimized.

Care of Incisions

Incisions require tender loving care, not harsh scrubbing and strength testing.

Use gentle soap and water in the shower and rinse thoroughly.

If you were given dressing change instructions, be sure to follow them.

2017;220:147-163. doi:10.1016/j.jss.2017.06.093

National Health Services.Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery).

University of Michigan Health.

Michigan Medicine.Incision care after surgery.

2019;19(1):20. doi:10.1186/s12906-018-2427-y

John Hopkins Medicine.Appendectomy.

Abdominal incisions in general surgery: a review.Ann Ib Postgrad Med.

2007 Dec;5(2):59-63.