Lip Sutures: When to Remove Stitches After an Injury

Lip suturing

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my situation.
I had a car accident on November 27, and I received 1 to 3 stitches on the inside of my upper lip (the doctor did not specify how many stitches were placed).
I was also not informed whether the stitches need to be removed.
It has been almost a month, and there is still one knot of the stitch that hasn't fallen off.
Is it normal for the stitch to still be there after nearly a month? The area around the knot is a bit swollen, but it doesn't hurt at all.
However, there is a foul odor coming from the area where the knot is tied.
Should I have that knot removed, or can I wait for it to fall off on its own?

Shuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/20

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

In general, lacerations on the inner surface of the upper lip are typically sutured using absorbable sutures (commonly catgut).
Most of the time, these sutures will dissolve on their own.
However, many patients, like yourself, may find that while the wound has already healed, the sutures have not yet fallen out.
In such cases, it is advisable to visit a general surgery outpatient clinic for assistance in suture removal.
There is no need to hesitate; it is better to have them removed as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2017/12/20

More Info

When it comes to lip sutures, particularly after an injury like a car accident, it's essential to understand the healing process and when to seek further medical attention. In your case, having stitches in your upper lip for nearly a month is a situation that warrants careful consideration.

Typically, sutures in the oral cavity, including the lips, are made from materials that are either absorbable or non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures usually dissolve on their own within a week or two, while non-absorbable sutures need to be removed by a healthcare professional. The timeline for removal can vary based on the type of suture used, the location of the injury, and the individual’s healing process. Generally, non-absorbable sutures in the lip area are removed within 5 to 10 days post-injury.

In your situation, since you mentioned that the stitches have not fallen out after almost a month and that there is a knot remaining, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. The presence of swelling and a foul odor at the site of the knot is concerning. While it may not be painful, these symptoms could indicate an infection or a reaction to the suture material. Infections can occur even in the absence of pain, and the odor suggests that there might be an issue that needs to be addressed.

Here are some steps you should consider:
1. Consult Your Doctor: Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider or a specialist who can assess the condition of your lip and the sutures. They can determine whether the sutures need to be removed or if any additional treatment is necessary.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in the area, such as increased swelling, redness, or discharge. If you notice any worsening symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

3. Avoid Self-Removal: Do not attempt to remove the sutures yourself, as this could lead to complications, including further injury or infection.

4. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Ensure that you are keeping the area clean. Rinse your mouth with a saline solution or an antiseptic mouthwash to help reduce the risk of infection.

5. Follow-Up Care: After the stitches are evaluated and possibly removed, follow your doctor's advice regarding care for the area to promote healing and prevent complications.

In summary, while it is not uncommon for stitches to take some time to dissolve or be removed, the combination of prolonged presence, swelling, and odor suggests that you should seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider will be able to give you the best guidance tailored to your specific situation, ensuring that you recover without complications.

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