How Long Does It Take for Absorbable Sutures to Dissolve?

Q: How Long Does It Take for Absorbable Sutures to Dissolve?

Hello： 1. <br>Generally absorbable. <br>2. <br>Typically, scar tissue is normal and usually heals within 1-2 months.

How long does it take for absorbable sutures to be absorbed?

Some of the sutures in the oral wound have been removed while others remain.
Could you please clarify if the remaining sutures are absorbable (it has been 14 days since the procedure)? Additionally, the wound on the lower lip has healed, but there is a hard lump inside.
Is this normal? How long will it take to fully heal?

Li Xi'en, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/29

Dr. Lü Mingchuan reply Plastic Surgery

Hello: 1.
Generally absorbable.
2.
Typically, scar tissue is normal and usually heals within 1-2 months.

Reply Date: 2021/11/29

More Info

Absorbable sutures, commonly used in various surgical procedures, are designed to dissolve over time, eliminating the need for removal. The duration for absorbable sutures to dissolve can vary based on several factors, including the type of suture material used, the location of the sutures, and individual healing rates. Generally, absorbable sutures can take anywhere from a few days to several months to fully dissolve.

For instance, sutures made from polyglycolic acid (PGA) or polylactic acid (PLA) typically dissolve within 60 to 90 days. However, some sutures, like those made from catgut, may dissolve in as little as 7 to 10 days. In the context of oral surgery, sutures are often placed in areas that heal relatively quickly, and many absorbable sutures are designed to dissolve within two to three weeks.

Regarding your specific situation, if you have had sutures placed in your mouth and some have been removed while others remain, it is likely that the remaining sutures are absorbable. Since you mentioned that it has been 14 days since the procedure, it is reasonable to expect that the absorbable sutures should begin to dissolve soon, especially if they were of the type that typically dissolves within a few weeks.

As for the hard lump you mentioned inside your lower lip where the wound has healed, this can be a normal part of the healing process. After an injury or surgical procedure, it is common for the body to form scar tissue as part of the healing process. This scar tissue can sometimes feel firm or hard to the touch. Over time, this hard lump may soften and become less noticeable as the tissue continues to heal. The complete healing process can take several weeks to months, depending on the extent of the injury and individual healing factors.

If the hard lump persists or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (like redness or discharge), it would be advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess the area and determine if any further treatment is necessary.

In summary, absorbable sutures typically dissolve within a few days to several months, depending on the material used. If you are 14 days post-surgery, it is likely that the remaining sutures are absorbable and should dissolve soon. The hard lump in your lip is likely a normal part of the healing process, but if you have concerns, it is best to seek medical advice.

Similar Q&A

How Long Does It Take for Surgical Sutures to Dissolve?

Two years ago, I underwent laparoscopic surgery to remove my gallbladder due to gallstones. The incision at my navel was closed with absorbable sutures, but after two years, the sutures are still present. Occasionally, when I accidentally tug on the suture ends, there is a small ...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
The "meat line" refers to absorbable sutures, which are designed to be absorbed in the subcutaneous tissue (the "meat"). Once exposed to the surface, they will not be absorbed. However, after two years, the internal portion should have loosened and disintegrat...

Understanding Post-Circumcision Care: When Will Stitches Dissolve?

Doctor: Hello, I had a circumcision a week ago. The doctor told me that I don't need to have the stitches removed, but the stitches haven't fallen out on their own. How long should I wait for the stitches to dissolve?

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Young Male: Hello, generally, sutures will fall out in about 1-2 weeks. However, some individuals take better care of their wounds, keeping them very dry, which can prevent the sutures from being absorbed. In some cases, they may not be absorbed even after 14 days. At this point,...

Concerns About Dissolving Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

I recently had my wisdom teeth extracted, and after the stitches were placed, the doctor told me to return in two weeks to have them removed. However, less than two weeks later, the stitches have turned yellow and seem to have softened. What should I do? Should I go back to see t...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Mr. Wu, Hello! As mentioned, it may be an absorbable suture. Please communicate more with your physician. Thank you! Wishing you safety! Sincerely, Director Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Understanding Post-Surgery Concerns: What to Do If Stitches Don't Dissolve

Hello Doctor, I completed my surgery on February 15 and started soaking in water on February 22. However, in early March, I noticed that the suture ends had not fallen off, so I went for a follow-up appointment. The doctor just advised me to continue soaking in water. Now, after ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Will the sutures be absorbed by the surrounding skin after they have not fallen out? No, they will break. If you don't want to wait, you can return for a follow-up. Generally, they will break on their own. Thank you for your inquiry.