What should you know about non-dissolvable stitches?

These stitches are made from material the body does not break down quickly. They provide support across a cut while new tissue forms. The removal date depends on the wound site, depth, tension, and healing, so the clinician who closed the wound should give you an individual plan. Stitches on the face may be removed sooner than those over a joint or on the trunk.

Mild pulling, itching, or tenderness can occur as the skin heals. A small amount of dried blood may be expected, but increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, or wound separation can indicate a problem.

Follow the dressing instructions and keep the area clean. Wash gently as advised, pat it dry, and avoid picking at scabs or pulling the thread. Limit stretching, friction, and soaking until the clinician says the wound can get wet normally. Do not cut or remove the stitches yourself. A clinician can provide Wound Care and Dressing advice and explain whether a tetanus booster is needed after a dirty or deep injury.

Contact a clinician promptly if redness spreads, pain increases, the area becomes hot, pus appears, fever develops, or the wound opens. Seek urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, loss of feeling, a pale or cold limb, or a deep wound with reduced movement. If a stitch breaks, cover the area lightly and arrange assessment rather than trying to repair it at home.

Ask when removal is planned, how to clean and cover the wound, which activities to avoid, what scar care is suitable, and whether the thread is Surgical Sutures material that needs special follow-up.