Dealing with a cut or wound that requires stitches can be a stressful experience. One of the most common questions people have after getting stitched up is: “How Long Do Stitches Stay In?” It’s a crucial question because proper stitch care and timely removal are essential for healing and preventing complications.
To provide clarity and expert advice, we’ve consulted with Dr. Michael Yaakovian, a respected surgeon and wound-care specialist at Houston Methodist. This guide answers your pressing questions about stitches, their duration, and how to care for them effectively to ensure optimal healing.
Can Stitches Get Wet? Understanding Water Exposure
One of the primary concerns after receiving stitches is water exposure. Dr. Yaakovian emphasizes the importance of keeping stitches completely dry for the first 48 hours. This initial period is critical for the skin to begin forming a new protective layer. Moisture during this phase can hinder this process.
This means postponing showers for the first two days after getting stitches. After this initial 48-hour period, brief exposure to water, such as a quick shower spray, is generally acceptable. However, it’s vital to avoid soaking or submerging stitches in water for approximately four weeks. This includes baths, swimming pools, and hot tubs.
Dr. Yaakovian explains that maintaining a dry environment around the stitches is crucial to prevent infection. Moisture can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection at the suture site.
Should Stitches Be Covered? Dressing and Protection
Typically, stitches are covered immediately after the procedure, either in the hospital or your doctor’s office. Dr. Yaakovian advises leaving this initial dressing in place for two to three days, ensuring it stays dry during this period.
After removing the initial dressing, it’s generally not necessary to apply further coverings or ointments like petroleum jelly or antibiotic creams unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Furthermore, cleaning the suture site with hydrogen peroxide is discouraged, as it can impede the healing process.
Dr. Yaakovian suggests leaving the stitches uncovered to air dry and heal naturally. If you consider using scar prevention creams, it’s essential to wait until the wound is completely closed before application. If tissue adhesive or glue was used instead of traditional sutures, covering the area is usually unnecessary.
Why Are Stitches Itchy? Understanding the Healing Process
Itchiness around stitches is a common and often bothersome symptom. Dr. Yaakovian clarifies that itching is a natural part of the wound healing process. Inflammatory cells, crucial for fighting infection and promoting healing, release chemicals like histamine, which can trigger itching.
Additionally, damaged nerve endings in the healing area can contribute to itchiness as they regenerate. The suture material itself, or the adhesive glue if used, can also cause a localized reaction leading to itching. In some instances, the tape used for the initial dressing might also be the source of irritation and itch. While less common, yeast infections can also cause itching around stitches.
Exercising with Stitches: Precautions and Advice
Physical activity and exercise are important for overall health, but caution is needed when you have stitches. Concerns about exercise pulling stitches apart and reopening the wound are valid.
Dr. Yaakovian explains that it takes approximately four to six weeks for tissue to regain its maximum strength after being stitched. During this period, it’s best to avoid activities that cause tension, stretching, or shearing forces at the suture site.
Depending on the location and extent of your stitches, you might need to modify your workout routine or daily activities. Your doctor can provide specific recommendations regarding movements and activities to avoid until the stitches are removed and the area is well-healed. It’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard, which could compromise the healing process.
Recognizing Infected Stitches: Signs to Watch For
Monitoring your stitches for signs of infection is crucial for preventing complications. Similar to any wound, stitches can become infected if bacteria enter the site. Dr. Yaakovian outlines key signs of infection to be aware of:
- Increased redness around the stitches
- Increased itching or pain
- Tenderness to the touch
- Drainage from the suture site (pus or cloudy fluid)
- Fever and chills
While some initial redness is normal, increasing redness accompanied by other symptoms warrants medical attention. If an infection develops, stitches may need to be removed to allow for drainage and thorough cleaning of the site. Prompt medical intervention is essential to manage infection effectively.
How Long Do Stitches Typically Stay In? Duration and Types
The question “how long do stitches stay in?” doesn’t have a single answer. The duration varies depending on the type of stitches used and their location on the body.
Dr. Yaakovian explains that dissolvable stitches, often used internally, do not require manual removal. These stitches are designed to break down and be absorbed by the body over time. Conversely, non-dissolvable stitches, typically placed on the outer skin layers, require removal. These are generally left in place for about two weeks.
However, the timeline can be shorter for stitches on the face to minimize scarring, or longer for stitches in areas under more tension or prone to slower healing. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how long your stitches need to remain in place and schedule a follow-up appointment for removal if necessary.
Risks of Leaving Stitches In Too Long
Understanding the removal timeline is important because leaving stitches in for too long can lead to complications. Dr. Yaakovian cautions that stitches left in place longer than recommended can become problematic.
The skin can start to grow over the stitches, making removal more difficult and potentially more painful. Furthermore, prolonged presence of stitches can increase scarring. It is therefore crucial to adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding stitch removal and attend scheduled follow-up appointments promptly.
How Are Stitches Removed? The Removal Procedure
Stitch removal is usually a straightforward procedure. Dr. Yaakovian describes the process as simple: the stitches are cut and then gently pulled out. While you might feel some pressure or a slight tugging sensation, it should not be painful, and local anesthetic is typically not needed.
Despite its apparent simplicity, stitch removal should always be performed by a healthcare professional or under their guidance. Attempting to remove stitches yourself at home is not recommended without prior approval from your doctor.
Dr. Yaakovian also notes that sometimes dissolvable stitches placed internally may protrude through the skin as they dissolve. It’s important not to pull or cut these yourself. If you have concerns about protruding dissolvable stitches, contact your doctor for advice on whether they need to be trimmed.
By understanding these key aspects of stitch care and duration, you can confidently navigate the healing process and ensure the best possible outcome after receiving stitches. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions and reach out to them if you have any concerns or notice signs of complications.
