Post-Surgery Complications: Delayed Dissolving Stitches After Circumcision

Q: Post-Surgery Complications: Delayed Dissolving Stitches After Circumcision

Hello： 1) You may return for a follow-up appointment. <br>Currently, there is reduced erectile function; please take good care of the wound. <br>2) You may feel some sensation when the needle is removed, but it shouldn't be too painful; it's a non-surgical procedure. <br>3) The s

Postoperative issues with the second-generation circumcision device?

Hello Doctor, I underwent a second-generation circumcision procedure on June 30th.
The physician mentioned that the suture removal process typically takes 14-21 days.
I have also researched a lot about suture removal online (though there is limited information).
The circumcision procedure was quick, and the incision looks quite nice, but my suture removal process has been very slow.
Online information states that if the sutures have not been removed after 30 days, I should go to the hospital for suture removal.

1.
Doctor, I change the dressing 1-2 times a day.
After 14 days post-surgery, I have been using a cotton swab dipped in Betadine to clean around the sutures (up, down, left, right), but it is really painful every day (a sharp pain, as the sutures catch on the tissue).
Now, it has been over a month, and there are still 11 sutures that have not fallen out (initially, there seemed to be about 20 sutures).
Should I go to the hospital for suture removal?
2.
If I need to have the sutures removed, what is the procedure? Will it be very painful? Is it considered a surgical procedure? Can local anesthesia be administered?
3.
Is the falling out of the sutures a natural process that takes time, or are there methods to expedite their removal?
4.
There are one or two sutures that are still embedded in the tissue (see image two).
How should I handle this?
-------------------------------------------------
Here are the images:
https://imgur.com/h9yYZtf
https://imgur.com/poucuRy
https://imgur.com/JRjl7L9
Thank you, Doctor.

A-Nan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/30

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) You may return for a follow-up appointment.
Currently, there is reduced erectile function; please take good care of the wound.
2) You may feel some sensation when the needle is removed, but it shouldn't be too painful; it's a non-surgical procedure.
3) The staples will naturally fall out over time; there are no other methods to remove them.
4) Please schedule a follow-up appointment.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/07/30

More Info

After undergoing circumcision surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience concerns regarding the healing process, particularly with delayed dissolving stitches. In your case, it has been over a month since your procedure, and you still have several stitches that have not dissolved. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you might expect and the steps you should consider.

1. Delayed Dissolving Stitches: Typically, dissolvable stitches are designed to break down and be absorbed by the body within a specific timeframe, usually between 14 to 21 days. However, individual healing rates can vary significantly based on several factors, including the patient's overall health, the location of the stitches, and the body's response to the material used. If you still have stitches after 30 days, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
2. Pain and Discomfort: You mentioned experiencing pain when using a cotton swab to manipulate the stitches. This discomfort can be a sign that the stitches are still firmly anchored in the tissue, which is not unusual. However, if the pain is severe or worsening, it may indicate an issue that requires medical attention.

3. Need for Removal: If the stitches have not dissolved after a month and are causing significant discomfort, it is prudent to visit your doctor for an evaluation. They may recommend removing the stitches, especially if they are embedded in the tissue or causing irritation. The procedure for stitch removal is generally straightforward and can often be done in the office.
4. Procedure for Stitch Removal: The removal of stitches is typically a quick process. Your doctor will use sterile instruments to cut the stitches and gently pull them out. While some patients may experience mild discomfort during this procedure, it is usually not painful. If you are particularly anxious about pain, you can discuss the option of local anesthesia with your doctor beforehand.

5. Encouraging Dissolution: There are no specific methods to hasten the dissolution of stitches, as this process is largely dependent on the body’s healing response. However, maintaining proper hygiene and following your doctor's post-operative care instructions can help facilitate healing. Avoiding activities that may stress the surgical site is also crucial.

6. Embedded Stitches: If you notice that some stitches appear to be embedded in the skin, it is essential to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional. Embedded stitches can lead to complications such as infection or inflammation if not addressed. Your doctor will assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

7. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon or healthcare provider are essential to monitor your healing progress. They can provide guidance on wound care, signs of infection, and when to resume normal activities.

In conclusion, while it is common for dissolvable stitches to take time to dissolve, your situation warrants a follow-up with your healthcare provider, especially since you are experiencing pain and have several stitches that have not yet dissolved. They will be able to assess your healing, provide appropriate care, and ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to seek medical advice when in doubt.

Similar Q&A

Post-Circumcision Concerns: Delayed Dissolution of Stitches

Hello Doctor, I underwent a circumcision procedure on September 29th. I have been taking good care of the surgical site post-operation. According to my online research, the typical time for stitches to dissolve is about 14 days to a month. However, it has been almost two months n...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: You should return for a follow-up appointment. There's no need to worry too much. Wishing you good health.

Post-Circumcision Complications: Managing Wound Dehiscence and Healing

About a week after the circumcision surgery, I noticed that one side of the sutures had opened up due to morning erections, resulting in approximately four stitches breaking and a wound opening measuring about 2x0.5 cm. I returned to the doctor to ask if I needed to be re-stitche...

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology
Wounds that are sutured may heal faster; those that are not sutured may take a bit longer to heal. However, it is unlikely that they will "never heal." If you are truly uncomfortable, please return to your original treating physician for a follow-up appointment.

Post-Circumcision Concerns: Swelling and Stitch Issues Explained

Hello, doctor. I was previously operated on by you, and it has been one and a half months post-surgery. 1. The swelling has not subsided quickly; is there any method to reduce it faster? 2. The sutures have not completely dissolved, and the wound feels a bit painful when pressed....

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Please return for a follow-up examination.

Post-Circumcision Care: Tips for Smooth Recovery and Healing

Approximately 20 days after undergoing circumcision due to balanitis, all stitches have now dissolved. The surgeon made the incision about 1.5 cm behind the coronal sulcus, and there is still slight swelling along both sides of the incision, resembling a string of beads. Addition...

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
Hello PP: Swelling and irregularity after circumcision is a normal phenomenon. The key to recovery is simply time. Additionally, it is important to avoid smoking, avoid alcohol, and steer clear of spicy and irritating foods. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and not staying up...