What are stitches?

Stitches are special threads that health professionals use to close a wound or surgical cut so it can heal. They help hold the skin and tissue together while your body repairs itself. Stitches are also sometimes called sutures.

Stitches can be made from different materials, such as:

• natural fibres
• man-made fibres
• fine metal

What are the different types of stitches?

There are different types of stitches and techniques your doctor may use, depending on your wound.

Stitches can be:

• non-absorbable — these will be removed by a doctor or nurse once the wound has healed
• absorbable — these dissolve naturally in the body and do not need to be removed

Wounds or cuts can also be held together in other ways, such as:

• a special glue for skin, which falls off by itself in a few weeks
• adhesive tape (such as wound closure strips), which also falls off after some time
• metal staples, which must be removed by a doctor or nurse

Newer types of stitches can also carry medicine or help check how a wound is healing.

How can I care for my stitches?

Taking good care of the stitches will help your wound heal and minimise scarring. It's important to keep stitches clean and dry, especially for the first 48 hours.

After 48 hours, you can wet the area gently and briefly, for example in a sink or shower. Carefully pat the stitches dry immediately. Too much moisture can slow down the healing process.

The following tips can help you care for your stitches:

• Do not soak in a bath or swim until the stitches are removed or have dissolved.
• Do not pick at the stitches or scabs — this may increase scarring. Scabs will fall off once the wound heals or when the stitches are removed.
• Only use creams and lotions if they are recommended by your doctor.
• If your stitches have bandages or dressings, follow the care instructions given by your doctor or nurse.
• Avoid physical activities that might re-open the wound. Children should avoid activities such as playing in sandpits or mud, riding bikes or swimming.

You can usually manage pain from the stitches with simple pain-relief medicines, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Follow the dosage instructions on the pack or ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How do I prevent or minimise scarring?

The wound will leave a scar after it has been stitched or glued. Scars may look different for everyone. They may:

• be darker or lighter than the surrounding skin
• be thick and raised
• fade over time or become thinner, more flexible and closer in colour to your skin tone (this may take several years)

Sun damage can make the scar darker and more noticeable. Use sunscreen on the healed wound or keep it covered when you are in the sun for at least one year.

How long will my wound take to heal?

Keeping the wound clean helps your skin come together and start the healing process. The speed of healing and how the scar looks depends on:

• your original wound
• your general health
• how well you take care of the wound

In the first few weeks after your wound is stitched or glued, the skin is still weaker than normal. It takes several months to fully heal. That’s why it’s important to take care of the wound. Also avoid putting pressure or strain on the area, even after the stitches or dressings have been removed.

What are the stages of wound healing?

Wounds heal in 4 stages. As the wound heals, it will look different at each stage:

• Stage 1 is haemostasis (stopping the bleeding). This happens straight after the injury. Your body tightens the blood vessels to stop bleeding. Blood clots naturally form to seal your wound.
• Stage 2 is inflammation (cleaning and fighting infection). This happens in the first 4 days after injury. Your body sends special cells to clean the wound and fight infection. In this time, the wound may look red, swollen or feel warm.
• Stage 3 is proliferation (growing new tissue). This happens from 2 to 24 days after the injury. New tissue begins to rebuild the wound. It may look pink and bumpy. Healing is best when the wound stays covered.
• Stage 4 is remodelling (strengthening the skin). This happens from 24 days to 1 year after injury. The new skin becomes smoother and stronger.

How long will my stitches stay in?

Stitches are often removed after 5 to 10 days. This depends on the type of wound and where it is. Your doctor or nurse will advise you on the best time to remove them.

If stitches are taken out too soon, the wound might not have healed properly. If left in too long, they can be harder to remove and may increase the risk of scarring.

Dissolvable stitches do not need to be removed. Stitches in your mouth or under the skin are usually dissolvable. They will fall out or disappear on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. Some stitches may take longer to disappear.

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if you notice any signs that your wound is not healing properly. These may include:

• redness that spreads or gets worse
• the wound starts to open or separate
• swelling or warmth around the area
• discharge, pus or a bad smell
• pain that doesn’t get better
• a fever

If you’re unhappy with how your scar looks or it causes discomfort, talk to your doctor about scar treatment options.

Resources and support

• Visit Wounds Australia for more information about helping your wound heal.
• The Agency for Clinical Innovation offers a fact sheet for people who have presented to the emergency department for wound care.
• HealthyWA offers information on suture care.
• The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne offers information about stitches and glue care for your child.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.