Post-Circumcision Care: When Will Stitches Dissolve?

Q: Post-Circumcision Care: When Will Stitches Dissolve?

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

Prepuce issues

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?

Xiao Shao Nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/26

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, I personally recommend visiting the outpatient clinic to have the sutures removed rather than waiting for them to dissolve on their own.
Response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2005/10/26

More Info

After a circumcision, it is common for patients to have questions regarding the care of the surgical site, particularly concerning the stitches. In your case, since it has been a week since your circumcision and the stitches have not yet dissolved or fallen out, it is understandable to be concerned about the timeline for healing.

Typically, the type of stitches used during circumcision can vary. There are two main types: absorbable and non-absorbable stitches. Absorbable stitches are designed to dissolve on their own over time, usually within 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the material used. Non-absorbable stitches, on the other hand, need to be removed by a healthcare professional, usually within 7 to 14 days post-surgery.

Since your doctor mentioned that you do not need to have the stitches removed, it is likely that absorbable stitches were used. In this case, you should expect them to start dissolving within the next week or so. However, the exact timing can vary based on individual healing rates and the specific type of absorbable material used.
Here are some important points to consider for post-circumcision care:
1. Keep the Area Clean: It is essential to keep the surgical site clean to prevent infection. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, and pat it dry. Avoid using any harsh soaps or chemicals.

2. Monitor for Signs of Infection: Watch for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the site. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

3. Pain Management: It is normal to experience some discomfort after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor.

4. Avoid Strenuous Activities: For the first few weeks after circumcision, it is advisable to avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or any activities that may strain the area.

5. Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure you attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. They can assess your healing progress and address any concerns you may have.

6. Patience with Healing: Healing times can vary significantly from person to person. It is important to be patient and allow your body the time it needs to heal properly.

If the stitches do not begin to dissolve within the next week or if you have any concerns about your healing process, it is best to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and ensure that everything is healing as expected.

In summary, while it is common for absorbable stitches to take 1 to 3 weeks to dissolve, individual healing rates can vary. Keeping the area clean, monitoring for infection, managing pain, and following up with your doctor are all crucial steps in your recovery process. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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