Can You Shave Near a Stitched Chin Wound Before Removing Stitches?

Can I shave if I have stitches on my chin that haven't been removed yet?

On the morning of February 24, I had a motorcycle accident where my chin hit a rock, resulting in a somewhat deep wound that required six stitches.
The emergency physician advised me to return for suture removal in ten days.
Since my facial hair grows very quickly, I am currently only using an electric razor to trim the hair around the wound when I change the dressing each day.
I am concerned that the electric razor might pull on the stitches.
Should I trim the hair near the wound directly with a razor or scissors, or should I wait until after the stitches are removed to address it?

Mr. Lai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/29

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

The wound after the removal of the artificial blood vessel heals within two weeks.
After healing, there will be scar tissue formation, and it is normal to experience neuropathic pain in the short term, which will gradually improve over time.

Reply Date: 2024/02/29

More Info

When dealing with a stitched chin wound, especially one that is still healing, it is crucial to approach grooming with caution. Given your situation, where you have six stitches on your chin from an accident, it is advisable to avoid shaving directly over the stitched area until the stitches are removed. Here’s why:
1. Risk of Disruption: Using a razor or even an electric shaver near the stitched area can inadvertently pull or tug on the stitches. This could lead to complications such as reopening the wound, increased bleeding, or even infection. The stitches are there to hold the skin together as it heals, and any disturbance can compromise the healing process.

2. Healing Process: The healing of a stitched wound typically takes about 7 to 14 days, depending on the depth and severity of the injury. During this time, the skin is still fragile, and the stitches are providing necessary support. It’s best to allow the area to heal without interference.

3. Grooming Alternatives: Instead of shaving, consider using scissors to carefully trim the hair around the stitched area. This method allows you to maintain your appearance without the risk of pulling on the stitches. Make sure to use clean, sharp scissors and be very gentle to avoid any accidental cuts or irritation to the wound.

4. Post-Stitch Care: After the stitches are removed, you can resume shaving normally, but it’s still wise to be gentle for a few days as the skin may still be sensitive. It’s also a good idea to keep the area clean and moisturized to promote healing.

5. Consult Your Doctor: If you have any concerns about how to care for your wound or when it is safe to shave, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can give you personalized advice based on the specifics of your injury and healing progress.

In summary, it is best to avoid shaving directly over the stitched area until the stitches are removed. Use scissors to carefully trim the surrounding hair instead, and consult your doctor for any further guidance. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your wound heals properly without complications.

Similar Q&A

Post-Suture Care: Can I Wash My Face After Stitches?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if it is safe to use facial cleanser on my face after having stitches removed and on other scabbed areas. I'm really unsure if using it will have any effects, but I’ve only been lightly wiping my face, and it feels oily and I'm getting ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! You can wash your face 2 to 3 days after the stitches are removed. You can start using scar gel one week after applying the beauty tape. Avoid getting the scar gel in your eyes and do not expose it to sunlight. There will be less pigmentation! Take care! Changhua Hospital ...

Concerns About Scar Appearance After Emergency Chin Sutures

Hello, doctor. I was in a car accident on May 9th and received stitches for a laceration on my chin measuring 4 x 1.5 x 0.9 cm in the emergency room. I had the stitches removed on May 20th. Since the suturing was done in the emergency room, it seems that it was not performed by a...

Dr. Lü Mingchuan reply Plastic Surgery
You can visit the outpatient clinic for evaluation.

Can I Remove My Dimple Surgery Stitches from Inside My Mouth?

I underwent dimpleplasty at the end of July, which did not require stitches to be removed. After having regrets, in mid-August, my doctor made a small incision on my cheek to cut the sutures (the dimples do not show when I am not smiling), but the lines are still quite noticeable...

Dr. Luo Qihua reply Plastic Surgery
Are you referring to scars when you mention lines? Haven't the stitches already been removed?

Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Care: Cleaning Tips and Concerns

Hello, doctor. I had my wisdom tooth extracted yesterday, and I received stitches. Today, I am no longer in pain, and there is no bleeding or noticeable swelling. I brush my teeth after eating, but the stitched area is very close to my molars, and I'm unsure if I need to cle...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: You can use a gauze pad soaked in mouthwash to gently wipe the molar. Avoid pulling or excessively cleaning the wound area and the sutured area.