An extra thin hydrocolloid wound dressing (Granuflex®) was compared to a conventional dry dressing (Mepore) after intermediate and minor day surgical procedures. There was no difference between the two in dressing change frequency or outcome for hernia and varicose vein surgery. Minor surgery patients had significantly less dressing changes, and more patients in both classes were able to bath without disturbing the dressing when Granuflex was used. The hydrocolloid is significantly more expensive than the conventional dressing, but its other advantages may balance this in the day surgery context.