THE FACTS: The instructions for caring for fresh stitches are fairly universal: Keep the sutures clean and dry and avoid getting them wet for at least 48 hours. Doing so, the thinking goes, sharply reduces the rate of infection and improves healing.

Is it OK to get sutures wet?

After 48 hours, surgical wounds can get wet without increasing the risk of infection. After this time, you can get your stitches wet briefly with a light spray (such as in the shower), but they should not be soaked (for example, in the bath). Make sure you pat the area dry afterwards.

Why should stitches not get wet?

After 48 hours, surgical wounds can get wet without increasing the risk of infection. After this time, you can get your stitches wet briefly with a light spray (such as in the shower), but they shouldn't be soaked (for example, in the bath). Make sure you pat the area dry afterwards.