Delayed Dissolution of Stitches After Circumcision: What to Do?

Q: Delayed Dissolution of Stitches After Circumcision: What to Do?

Hello： If it cannot be removed, seek medical attention; otherwise, attempting to do it yourself may result in bleeding. <br>Wishing you good health.

After circumcision, the surgical sutures have not fallen off for an extended period?

I had surgery on June 15, and now it is July 23, which is about one month and one week later.
According to my surgeon, the sutures should dissolve within a month after the operation.
However, I still have some suture ends visible on my penis, and there are no visible wounds.
During my last dressing change, some sutures came off on their own.
I attempted to gently pull on the sutures with tweezers; some came off easily as if they were adhered, but some are still attached to the tissue.
As mentioned, there are no visible wounds, and I do not experience significant pain during an erection, but there is a slight stinging sensation when I press on the areas where the sutures remain.
I would like to ask the doctor if I need to cut the sutures myself or if there is another way to remove them.
Thank you.

Changshixingfu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/24

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If it cannot be removed, seek medical attention; otherwise, attempting to do it yourself may result in bleeding.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/07/24

More Info

Delayed dissolution of stitches after circumcision can be a concerning issue, especially when the expected timeline for the stitches to dissolve has passed. In your case, it has been over a month since your surgery, and you still have some stitch remnants attached to the skin. While it is common for absorbable stitches to take some time to dissolve completely, there are a few important considerations and steps you can take.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that absorbable stitches are designed to dissolve on their own as the body heals. However, the timeline for this process can vary based on several factors, including the type of material used for the stitches, the location of the stitches, and individual healing rates. In some cases, stitches may take longer to dissolve, especially if they are in an area that experiences a lot of movement or friction.

Given that you are experiencing some discomfort when pressing on the area where the stitches remain, it is advisable to avoid any attempts to forcibly remove the stitches yourself. While it may be tempting to try and pull or cut the stitches, doing so can lead to complications such as infection, bleeding, or further irritation of the tissue. Instead, the best course of action is to consult with your surgeon or a qualified healthcare professional. They can assess the situation and determine whether the remaining stitches need to be removed manually or if they are likely to dissolve on their own in the near future.

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, it is also important to communicate this to your healthcare provider. They may recommend pain management strategies or prescribe medication to help alleviate any discomfort you are experiencing. Additionally, they can provide guidance on proper care for the area to prevent infection and promote healing.

In the meantime, you should continue to keep the area clean and dry. Avoid any activities that may cause additional irritation or trauma to the site, such as vigorous exercise or sexual activity, until you have been cleared by your healthcare provider. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while it can be concerning to have lingering stitches after circumcision, it is crucial to avoid self-removal and consult with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management. They will be able to provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific situation and ensure that your healing process continues smoothly. Remember, your health and safety should always come first, and professional guidance is key in such matters.

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