What should you know about skin stitches types?

Absorbable sutures are designed to break down inside the body, so they are useful where removing thread would be difficult or for deeper layers beneath the skin. Removable sutures stay in place until a clinician checks the wound and takes them out at an appropriate time. Some wounds need more than one layer: deeper stitches support the tissue while surface stitches bring the skin edges together.

Suture material can be smooth or braided, and it may be selected for strength, flexibility, or how long support is needed. The thread itself does not determine whether a wound will leave a visible scar; wound size, direction, infection, tension, and individual healing also matter. A clinician may use local anaesthetic such as [Lidocaine Local Anaesthetic](/materials/lidocaine-local-anaesthetic/) before stitching.

Follow the written wound instructions. Keep the dressing and surrounding skin clean and dry as advised, avoid pulling or catching the thread, and do not soak the wound until you have been told it is ready. [Wound Care and Dressing](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/wound-care-and-dressing/) explains practical dressing care.

Do not cut or remove stitches yourself. If removable sutures were used, arrange the planned review because leaving them in too long can irritate the skin, while taking them out too early can allow the wound to separate. Protect the area from knocks and watch for changes rather than relying on appearance alone.

Seek prompt medical advice if redness spreads, pain is worsening, swelling increases, the wound becomes hot, or fluid that looks like pus appears. Contact a clinician if the edges separate, the thread breaks, bleeding does not settle with firm pressure, or you develop a fever or feel unwell.

A dirty or deep wound may also require assessment of tetanus protection; see [Tetanus Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/tetanus-vaccination/). Emergency help is appropriate for severe bleeding, loss of feeling or movement, or a wound involving the eye, airway, or major blood vessel.

Which suture type was used, when should it be reviewed or removed, and how should the dressing be changed? Ask what activity or soaking restrictions apply, what signs suggest infection, and whether the wound needs follow-up through [Wound Suturing](/treatments/minor-procedures/wound-suturing/).