When you have a wound that needs stitches, you may receive absorbable or non-absorbable sutures. Absorbable stitches or sutures breakdown over time and do not need removal, but they are not appropriate for all wounds. Non-absorbable stitches do require special care and removal, usually by a medical professional. At Rapid Healthcare, we offer same day suture removal appointments at our walk-in clinic in Bolingbrook, IL.
Sutures are one of the most common types of wound treatments. Whether you have a laceration from an injury or an incision from surgery, sutures or stitches may be used to improve the healing process. Sutures close the wound and help prevent infection and excessive scarring. Each suture is placed with a needle and knotted at the end to hold the skin together. Most stitches should be removed in less than two weeks – the exact time frame depends on the wound and location. Facial stiches are usually removed within a week, while scalp and trunk sutures are removed in 7-10 days. Leg, arm and joint stitches remain in the longest, usually 10-14 days.
Removing Stitches
When you receive stitches, you will be given instructions on how to care for your wound and when to remove your sutures. Most wounds with stitches need to be kept fairly dry for at least 24-48 hours and should not be soaked while they are in place to avoid infection or other complications. Once the advised time has passed, the sutures can be removed safely as long as there are no complications with the wound.
Suture removal is quick and virtually painless when performed by one of our medical professionals at Rapid Healthcare. Most stitches can be removed without need for numbing or anesthesia. The wound is cleaned and disinfected, then each suture is cut and pulled out of the skin. There may be a tugging sensation, but it usually does not cause any pain. Depending on the wound, adhesive strips may be added after the wound is cleaned again once the stitches are removed.
If you have sutures that you need removed, it can be quickly completed at our clinic. To schedule your appointment, contact our clinic in Bolingbrook, IL or stop by for a walk-in visit.