Butterfly stitches, often known as Steri-Strips or adhesive skin closures, are thin strips of reinforced material used in wound care. They are applied across a minor cut or surgical incision to gently pull the superficial wound edges together, providing mechanical support for proper closure. These adhesive strips are a less invasive alternative to traditional sutures for wounds that are shallow, have straight edges, and are not under significant tension.
Duration and Natural Detachment
The length of time butterfly stitches remain in place typically ranges from five to ten days, though this can extend up to fourteen days depending on the wound’s location and the degree of tension on the skin. The primary goal is for the strips to detach naturally as the wound gains sufficient strength during the initial healing phase. Removing them too early risks stressing the newly formed tissue, which can lead to the wound edges separating.
The adhesive is designed to gradually weaken due to skin oils, moisture from showering, and routine friction from clothing or movement. As the wound heals beneath the strips, the edges of the dressing will begin to curl and lift, indicating they are ready to come off without intervention. In areas with faster healing rates, such as the face, the strips may loosen sooner than in high-tension areas like a joint or the lower leg.
Practical Care While Strips Are Applied
Maximizing the effectiveness of the adhesive strips requires diligent care during the first one to two weeks. Keep the application site completely dry for the initial 24 to 48 hours to allow the adhesive to bond firmly with the skin. After this period, showering is usually permissible, but avoid soaking the area in a bath, pool, or hot tub, as prolonged moisture significantly degrades the adhesive.
When showering, minimize direct water spray onto the strips, and use a mild, non-oil-based soap to clean the surrounding area. Following moisture exposure, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing, which could cause premature peeling. Avoid applying lotions, creams, or petroleum-based ointments near the wound edges, as these substances dissolve the adhesive. If the ends of the strips begin to curl or lift, carefully trim them with clean scissors to prevent catching on clothing.
Manual Removal Guidelines
If the butterfly stitches remain securely in place beyond the typical two-week period, or if they cause skin irritation, manual removal may become necessary. Before attempting removal, confirm with a healthcare provider that the underlying wound has fully closed and is ready for the strips to come off. The safest method involves softening the adhesive to reduce the risk of stripping the skin or reopening the incision.
The adhesive can be loosened by soaking the area with warm water or by applying mineral oil or a medical adhesive remover. Once the adhesive is pliable, gently peel the strips back by lifting the ends and pulling them parallel to the skin and toward the center of the wound. This technique minimizes tension on the newly healed tissue. Always stabilize the skin near the edge of the strip with a finger as you peel to further reduce strain on the incision.
Recognizing Signs of Complication
While butterfly stitches are an effective closure method, monitor the wound for signs that healing is not progressing correctly. Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound edges can indicate a developing infection. Another warning sign is the presence of pus, which appears as a thick, often yellow or green discharge from beneath the strips.
Persistent or increasing pain at the wound site, rather than the expected gradual improvement, also warrants medical attention. A serious complication known as dehiscence occurs if the wound edges separate, which may be visible if the strips peel away and expose a gap. Any sign of increasing pain, fever, or a foul odor requires prompt consultation with a healthcare professional.