An apparatus for assisting with wound closure includes oppositely disposed, and oppositely facing, proximal and distal surfaces separated by an apparatus body. The distal surface is configured for selective attachment to a patient tissue surface. At least one of the proximal surface, the distal surface, and the apparatus body is made substantially from an polymeric material. The polymeric material includes a structurally incorporated ability to self-repair damage caused by mechanical usage over time. A method of assisting with wound closure is also provided.