Is Removing Stitches Too Late Dangerous?

Stitches, also called sutures, play an important role in healing from injury or surgery. They help repair tissues and ensure that the affected area heals correctly. However, removing stitches too late can result in a range of complications that could affect your recovery. Understanding the consequences of late stitch removal can help you pay attention to aftercare advice and accelerate the healing process.

What are the different types of stitches?

There are different types of stitches your doctor may use, based on your wound.

• Absorbable stitches: Dissolvable stitches don’t need removal as the body absorbs them naturally within around 60 days. This type of stitch can be used for layers of tissue and skin that heal quickly. This type of stitch is created using materials that dissolve slowly inside the body. They are strong during the first few days of healing because they are made with multiple fibres and are less likely to break. After two weeks of healing, they will start losing their strength. They are perfect for repairing muscles, as muscles need strong stitches at the beginning of healing, but heal quite fast.
• Non-absorbable stitches: This type of stitch is ideal for visible skin wounds, as they usually lead to less scarring. They are removed after the wound has had a chance to heal. Generally, it may take around one week for the tissues to connect and create a bridge between the two edges of the wound. Once the tissue has healed, the stitches can be removed. Removing stitches too late can result in additional scarring.

What if you are removing stitches too late?

• Increased Risk of Infection
  One of the most significant risks of removing stitches too late is an increased risk of infection. Stitches can accumulate bacteria over time if you leave them for a long time. If infection occurs, it can result in swelling, redness, and discharge from the wound, complicating your stitch-healing time.
• Scarring and Tissue Damage
  If stitches remain in place too long, they can lead to scarring or tissue damage. The underlying tissues and skin may heal around the stitches, resulting in unsightly scars or painful knots. On the other hand, timely removal of stitches can help with smoother healing and minimal scarring.
• Delayed Healing
  When stitches are not removed on time, they can delay the healing process. As the wound starts to heal, the stitches can create tension around the affected area, pulling it in the wrong direction and reopening the wound. This delayed healing can extend the healing time.

How long should stitches stay in for?
Generally, stitches are removed after 5 to 10 days, but this depends on where they are situated. A GP doctor or nurse will advise you on the right time to remove sutures. If the stitches are removed too soon, the wound might not have healed completely. If the stitches remain too long, they can be more difficult to remove and may increase the risk of scarring. Dissolvable stitches don’t need to be removed. They will dissolve naturally in a week or two, but some may take several months.

Do GPs do stitches?
To repair your cut, a doctor will first clean your wound, remove any foreign substances, and close the wound with stitches. If you live in Glenroy and want to know how your wound can be cared for at home, you can get in touch with the GP Glenroy at Magnus Medical Clinic. They will give you tips to prevent an infection. Our GP will also:
• Give you a tetanus shot or painkillers, if required.
• Discuss any issues that could affect healing, such as recent illness or diabetes.
• Give you a referral to a specialist if required.

How long do dissolvable stitches last?
Dissolvable stitches dissolve on their own and don’t need to be removed. It may take up to 2 weeks, or longer in some cases.

Should I cover the wound after stitches are removed?
You may need to keep open wounds covered and dry for at least 3 days or as advised by the trusted doctors of Glenroy if you are getting your treatment done by doctors in Glenroy.

Conclusion
You can get a consultation from a general practitioner to determine if stitches are the right option for closing your wound. You can also get in touch with a GP doctor at Magnus Medical Clinic if you want to know when your stitches need to be removed.

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