Types of plastic surgery stitches

Absorbable sutures are placed under the skin or in deeper layers and gradually break down as tissue strengthens. Non-absorbable sutures may be used where precise skin-edge alignment is needed and are removed when the wound has started to seal. Some repairs use layered closure: deeper stitches reduce tension while fine surface stitches support the skin edges. The material, thickness and pattern can vary with the body area and whether the repair is cosmetic, reconstructive or needed after an injury.

Follow the written wound-care plan, keep the dressing clean and dry as directed, and avoid pulling, stretching or soaking the area until cleared. Do not pick at scabs or trim a stitch yourself. Mild tenderness, swelling or bruising can occur, but the wound should be checked if the edges separate or the dressing becomes soaked. Ask when surface stitches should be removed; timing depends on the site and tension.

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pain, pus, bad odour, fever or bleeding that does not settle with gentle pressure. Urgent care is needed for heavy bleeding, wound separation, severe swelling or difficulty breathing. A dirty or deep wound may also require review of tetanus vaccination.

Which stitches are being used, and are any removable? When should they come out? What activity, washing and dressing routine is suitable? Which changes suggest infection or wound separation?