The wound from the sutures has opened?
Hello doctor, it has been one week and three days since my circumcision surgery.
When I returned for a follow-up, the nurse removed all the stitches, but I noticed that there is about a two-centimeter area of the wound that has not closed properly.
It is not painful, and it has an opening of about 0.5 centimeters.
Will this heal on its own if left as is? I have been observing it for a few days, and the wound still has not closed.
Haohao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/19
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Based on personal experience, changing medication often helps, but please discuss this with your surgeon.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2024/07/19
More Info
After a circumcision, it is common to have concerns about the healing process, especially after the stitches have been removed. Based on your description, it sounds like you have a small gap in the wound that has not closed completely. While it is not unusual for some separation to occur, especially in the early stages of healing, it is important to monitor the situation closely.
In general, circumcision wounds should heal within a few weeks, and most of the time, the edges of the wound will come together as the healing progresses. However, if you notice that the wound is not closing or if there is any increase in redness, swelling, or discharge, it could indicate a potential issue such as infection or delayed healing.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your healing process:
1. Natural Healing: In many cases, small gaps in surgical wounds can heal on their own, especially if they are not causing pain or showing signs of infection. The body has a remarkable ability to heal itself, and as long as you are following proper aftercare instructions, there is a good chance that the wound will close naturally.
2. Signs of Infection: Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge that is yellow or green. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as an infection can complicate the healing process.
3. Wound Care: Ensure that you are keeping the area clean and dry. Follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon or healthcare provider. This may include gentle cleaning with mild soap and water, avoiding any irritants, and possibly applying a topical antibiotic ointment if recommended.
4. Follow-Up Appointments: It is essential to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. They can assess the healing process and determine if any further intervention is necessary. If you have concerns before your next appointment, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for advice.
5. Timeframe for Healing: Generally, circumcision wounds can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks to heal completely, depending on various factors such as the individual’s health, the extent of the surgery, and how well the wound is cared for. If the gap remains after a couple of weeks, it may be worth discussing with your doctor whether additional treatment is needed.
6. Avoiding Complications: To promote optimal healing, avoid activities that could stress the area, such as vigorous exercise or sexual activity, until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider.
In conclusion, while it is possible for the wound to heal naturally, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely. If you have any doubts or if the wound does not appear to be healing properly, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice. They can provide reassurance and determine if any additional treatment is necessary to ensure proper healing.
Similar Q&A
Post-Circumcision Concerns: Healing and Care After Surgery
Hello Doctor, I underwent a circumcision on January 19th. On the sixth day post-surgery, when the dressing was changed, two-thirds of the stitches came out, but the wound has not yet scabbed over. (1) Is it normal for the stitches to come out when the wound is not fully healed? (...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: (1) Is it normal for the wound to not be completely healed when the sutures are removed? --> This is quite common; usually, there is partial healing with some areas still not healed. (2) Do I still need to keep it bandaged? --> If it is dry, not red, and not too swol...[Read More] Post-Circumcision Concerns: Healing and Care After Surgery
Understanding Post-Operative Care After Circumcision: What to Expect
After the circumcision procedure, I just had the dressing removed today and noticed that the area where the stitches are seems to be healing poorly, with a bit of redness. It looks like the scab has just fallen off, but I don't recall it ever forming a scab. Thank you for yo...
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, whether or not scabbing occurs is related to the individual's constitution and the nature of the surgical wound. The presence or absence of a scab should not affect the healing process.[Read More] Understanding Post-Operative Care After Circumcision: What to Expect
Is My Circumcision Healing Properly? Understanding Post-Procedure Concerns
Hello, doctor: It has been two weeks since my circumcision, and the stitches have mostly come out. However, there is a 1 cm gap at the site of the circumcision that is not bleeding and is not painful. Should I return to the hospital for re-stitching, or what should I do?
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, generally, re-suturing is not necessary unless the wound healing is poor. Typically, a circumcision wound takes about one month to fully heal. After circumcision, it is generally recommended to avoid sexual activity for two months. Otherwise, there may be a risk of wound d...[Read More] Is My Circumcision Healing Properly? Understanding Post-Procedure Concerns
Post-Circumcision Wound Concerns: What to Expect After Surgery
About 25 days after the circumcision laser surgery, the stitches have all fallen out, but there is a white line as shown in the image. It doesn't hurt, but will it affect future sexual activity? It seems like the sutures may not have healed properly and might need to be re-s...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It is suspected that the issue is not related to the suture, but rather to the wound. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment. After three weeks, it should not open up, but friction may cause some bleeding. Please return for an evaluation to see if wound ca...[Read More] Post-Circumcision Wound Concerns: What to Expect After Surgery
Related FAQ
(Urology)
Circumcision(Urology)
Wound(Urology)
Post-Electrocautery(Urology)
Post-Hernia Surgery(Urology)
Foreskin(Urology)
Post-Anal Fissure Surgery(Surgery)
Sutured Wound(Surgery)
Phimosis(Surgery)
Post-Fistula Surgery(Surgery)