Bumps commonly form around stitches after injury or surgical procedure. They are a normal part of the body’s healing process. Understanding their cause helps manage recovery expectations.
Why Bumps Form
The body’s natural response to an injury involves an inflammatory process, which can lead to the formation of bumps around stitches. This initial inflammation is a protective mechanism, where increased blood flow and immune cells rush to the wound site. The gathering of these cells and fluids contributes to localized swelling and a raised appearance.
Suture materials can also cause a reaction. The body may perceive stitches as foreign objects, triggering a localized immune response. This can result in bumps, or even areas of drainage, especially with non-dissolvable sutures or as dissolvable ones break down. Synthetic absorbable sutures can cause a moderate reaction, while natural materials like catgut may cause more pronounced reactions.
As the wound begins to close, new tissue, primarily collagen, starts to form. This initial scar tissue can feel raised or lumpy. Irritation of hair follicles within the healing area can also contribute to bumps.
How Bumps Resolve
Most bumps that form around stitches are a temporary aspect of healing and typically resolve naturally over time. The body gradually reabsorbs the excess fluid and inflammatory cells that initially caused the swelling. As the wound matures, the newly formed collagen remodels, leading to a flatter and softer scar.
The timeline for resolution varies significantly, generally ranging from weeks to several months. Factors influencing this include the individual’s healing capacity, the size and location of the wound, and the depth of the injury. For instance, stitches on joints or areas with more movement may take longer to flatten.
The type of suture material also plays a role. Dissolvable stitches are designed to be absorbed by the body, typically taking weeks to several months to disappear. Non-dissolvable stitches, which are removed after the wound closes, allow the body to encapsulate the material. Any associated bumps usually diminish once the stitches are out and the area heals.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many bumps are a normal part of healing, certain signs indicate a need for medical evaluation. Symptoms of infection include increasing pain, warmth, spreading redness, pus or yellow/green drainage from the wound, a foul smell, or fever. Any of these symptoms warrant prompt medical attention.
An allergic reaction to suture materials, though less common, can also manifest as intense redness, severe itching, swelling extending beyond the wound, or persistent symptoms that worsen. Suture extrusion, where a stitch begins to poke out or cause significant irritation, should also be reported to a healthcare provider.
Bumps that grow larger, become harder, or cause increasing pain beyond the expected healing period may also signal a problem. Sometimes, abnormal scar tissue can form, such as hypertrophic scars or keloids. Hypertrophic scars are raised but remain within the original wound boundaries, while keloids can grow beyond them and may require specific interventions.
Promoting Smooth Healing
Following post-operative instructions provided by a healthcare professional is important for optimal healing. This includes keeping the wound clean and dry for the initial period, usually 24 to 48 hours. After this, gentle cleaning around the stitches with mild soap and water is recommended, avoiding harsh scrubbing or chemicals.
Once the wound is fully closed and stitches are removed, moisturizing the area can help. Using gentle, unscented moisturizers or silicone products can help keep the scar hydrated, soften scar tissue, and improve its appearance. Gentle massage of the healed scar can also aid in remodeling collagen and preventing adhesions.
Protecting the healing area from sun exposure is also beneficial. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause discoloration and make scars more noticeable, potentially leading to hyperpigmentation. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and covering the scar with clothing can help protect it. The full maturation of a scar can take up to 18 months.