Suture Care

IN ORDER FOR YOUR WOUND TO HEAL PROPERLY, THE FOLLOWING ARE IMPORTANT:

• Keep the wound clean and dry (even when bathing) for the first 24 hours. Avoid swimming or soaking the wound until stitches are removed or 2 weeks if absorbable suture material was used.
• After 24 hours, remove the dressing and cleanse the wound gently with soap and water. Redress as directed by your provider.
• For wounds on the scalp, the hair may be washed gently after 48 hours. 
• Protect area from trauma. 
• Exposure to sunlight or tanning within the first 6 months can cause permanent discoloration of the wound. This can be prevented by limiting sun exposure, covering the scar, or using sunscreen SPF 30 or greater in the area during this time. 
• If you have steristrips instead of sutures, leave the steristrips on as long as possible. If they curl on the ends, trim the ends with scissors.

Notify the health care provider :

If you have signs of infection such as:
• Redness
• Swelling
• Increasing pain
• Discharge or drainage particularly if the drainage has a foul
odor
• Fever
• Red streaking from the wound

OR
• If you notice opening of the wound
• Sutures fall out before the scheduled time for removal