The stitch or stitches (if stitches were used) to close the skin will dissolve by themselves in a time frame of 5-10 days. Occasionally, they will fall out sooner and the edges of the skin will open up. If this occurs, the sutures do not need to be replaced as the surgical site will heal on its own.

How do I know my stitches are dissolving?

Generally absorbable sutures are clear or white in colour. They are often buried by threading the suture under the skin edges and are only visible as threads coming out of the ends of the wound. The suture end will need snipping flush with the skin at about 10 days.

How long do dissolving stitches last?

The time it takes for dissolvable or absorbable stitches to disappear can vary. Most types should start to dissolve or fall out within a week or two, although it may be a few weeks before they disappear completely. Some may last for several months.