Stitches (sutures) are used to close deep cuts and surgical incisions, holding tissue edges together to allow natural healing. Non-absorbable sutures, such as nylon or silk, require a follow-up appointment for removal once the wound has mended. This removal is a quick, straightforward procedure that must be performed by a healthcare professional to prevent complications and ensure the best aesthetic outcome.
Identifying Appropriate Removal Locations
The most common place to have non-dissolvable stitches removed is at a Primary Care Provider’s (PCP) office or with your family doctor. They are familiar with your medical history and can easily assess the wound’s healing progress. If the stitches were placed by a specialist, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist, returning to their specific office is often the preferred route for removal, ensuring a provider with specialized knowledge examines the area.
Urgent care centers and retail health clinics are also excellent options for routine suture removal, especially if your primary doctor is unavailable or you are traveling. These facilities are equipped to handle the procedure and offer a faster, cost-effective alternative to an emergency room visit. Before removal, the healthcare provider will evaluate the wound for proper closure and any signs of infection. Individuals should never attempt to remove their own stitches, as this introduces a high risk of infection and can cause poor scarring or re-opening of the wound.
Determining the Correct Timing for Removal
The timing for stitch removal depends highly on the wound’s location, as different areas heal at varying rates and experience different amounts of tension. Generally, most non-absorbable sutures are removed within 5 to 14 days after placement. Stitches on the face, which has a rich blood supply and lower skin tension, are removed much sooner, often between 3 to 5 days, to minimize visible scarring.
Areas under high tension or frequent movement, such as the back, chest, legs, or those crossing a joint, require a longer healing period. Stitches in these locations may remain in place for 10 to 14 days to ensure the wound has developed enough tensile strength. Leaving sutures in too long can lead to increased scarring, as the skin may grow around the material, or it can raise the risk of localized infection. Always adhere to the specific timeline provided by the medical professional who placed the sutures.
What to Expect During the Removal Procedure
The actual removal of stitches is a rapid and generally painless process performed in a clean, clinical setting. The healthcare professional will first clean the wound site and the sutures with an antiseptic solution to remove any crusting and reduce the risk of introducing bacteria. They will use sterile instruments, typically a pair of fine-tipped suture scissors and forceps.
The provider gently lifts the knot with forceps and snips the thread close to the skin surface on one side of the knot. This technique ensures that only the portion of the suture beneath the skin is pulled out, preventing surface bacteria from being dragged into the healing wound. Patients may feel a slight tugging sensation as each stitch is withdrawn, but this should not cause significant pain. After removal, the wound is reassessed, and the provider may apply small adhesive strips, sometimes called Steri-Strips, across the incision line for extra support.