Lotion on belly post op?

I'm now 5 days post op, third day home from the hospital.  Since Saturday evening, I've been wearing a light tank top under my binder because my tummy itches so darn bad!!! When can I start putting lotion on??

Wait for new skin to form at all incision sites.  Lotion can introduce an infection as it is not pure once it has been opened. 

I just saw that you are still on pain relief meds...those can make you itch.

Amy, I'm still wearing binders from my hernia surgery (3/3) and I always wear a T-shirt or tank under it too. That really helped me to cut down on the itching. I have gauze/bandage over the incisin that is still open some so I do put lotion on  my belly..but I keep it at least 3-4" away from the gauze/bandage/incision. If in doubt...call your surgeon's nurse and ask if that would be ok..and if they recommend a certain lotion to use. Sherri

Thanks ladies!! My dad was just here to check on me (he's almost 2 years post op) and he said to hold off a while longer, at least until the steri strips are off.  :(  Luckily the worst itching is in the middle, where nothing was done, but some of the incision sites are kinda itchy.  The only lotion I have here is all my "smelly stuff" from Bath & Body Works, and I definitely don't want to use those just yet on my belly!

Amy,  I guess I haven't been on here much, how did things go?  How are you feeling? I think I have decided on the rny so now I have a hundred questions. You sound good if that makes sense? Take care and write when you are up to it. Tracey

Tracey, I'm doing really well! We went to church yesterday morning, and I had hubby take me to Meijer late in the day to pick up some things.  I haven't taken a full pain pill since Saturday...just 1/2 yesterday morning and 1/2 last night before bed! Right now I'm all bloated and gassy, but I'm having bowel movements so I'm not overly concerned yet.  My parents are amazed at how well I'm doing (my dad had RNY Aug 2006) and how well I'm getting around.   Drop me a note if you have any more questions! Time to go supervise bedtime for my girls. and then tuck my own butt into bed... Amy