Dissolvable stitches can you get wet

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Absorbable sutures or dissolvable stitches do not require such a removal. In the natural process of healing, they are absorbed by the body and some parts of the suture dry up and fall off. These days doctors usually use a combination of dissolvable and standard sutures in India. This means that internal sewing is generally performed with absorbable sutures while the external incision may be held together by either or by both dissolvable and standard sutures.

Aftercare, however, remains vital for proper healing. Let us look at some tips to caring for these absorbable sutures. Caring for dissolvable stitches :. If you have received dissolvable stitches, it is important to keep the wound or the stitched area dry for at least 24 hours.

After this, you may be permitted to take showers, but it is best to avoid soaking in baths and swimming till the stitches are completely absorbed. Bathing and showering Care tips Removal Complications When to see a doctor Summary Healthcare professionals often use stitches, or sutures, to close up a wound or a surgical incision.

What are dissolvable stitches? Share on Pinterest The body can gradually absorb dissolvable stitches. When are they used? How long do they take to dissolve? Is it safe to bathe or shower?

Care tips. Share on Pinterest Changing dressings as and when the doctor advises reduces the risk of infection. Should you ever remove them? Share on Pinterest The skin around the wound becoming swollen, red, or warm may indicate infection.

When to see a doctor. Latest news Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. Removing stitches at home. Medically reviewed by Vincent J. What home remedies can treat my burn? Picking at it might increase scarring. For the first year, protect the scar from sun damage which can make it darker.

Stitches are often removed after 5 to 10 days, but this depends on where they are. Check with the doctor or nurse to find out. If your sutures are not the dissolvable type, see a doctor or nurse when it is time for them to be removed. Do it at the right time — if you have the stitches taken out too soon, the wound might not be healed properly.

If you leave them in too long, they can be more difficult to remove and increase the risk of scarring. Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. Sutures are a joining of the edges of a wound by stitching or a similar process.

Sutures can sometimes be called stitches. It is important to care for your sutures to help the healing process. Read more on WA Health website.