The natural process of dissolvable sutures
Dissolvable stitches are made from special materials, such as purified animal proteins or synthetic polymers, that are designed to be naturally broken down and absorbed by the body's tissues over a specific timeframe. This process, called hydrolysis, begins after they are placed and eliminates the need for manual removal. For internal surgical sites, absorbable sutures provide temporary support while the deeper tissues heal, and their gradual disintegration is a normal part of the recovery process.
The timeframe for dissolution varies widely, depending on several factors, including the type of suture material used, the location and size of the wound, and your body's individual healing rate. Your surgeon will have selected a specific material designed to provide support for the necessary period. While some stitches may dissolve in as little as one to two weeks, others can take several months.
Normal signs that internal stitches have dissolved
Because internal stitches are not on the surface, you typically will not see them dissolve. Instead, you will notice the normal progression of your healing.
Here are the typical indicators of proper healing:
- Decreasing pain and discomfort: As your wound heals and the sutures break down, you should experience a steady reduction in pain and a decline in your reliance on pain medication.
- Lessened swelling and redness: It is normal to have some swelling and redness around a surgical incision, but this should decrease over time. The skin should gradually return to its normal color and texture.
- No palpable sutures: As the internal stitches dissolve, you will no longer feel any lumps or ridges under the skin along the incision line. Feeling sutures is normal during the initial healing phase, but this sensation should disappear.
- Fading incision line: The surgical incision itself will continue to heal and fade over time, with new skin tissue forming over the wound.
- Overall feeling of improvement: You will generally feel more mobile and stronger, a testament to the internal healing that the dissolvable stitches facilitated.
How to tell if there's a complication
While the dissolving process is usually straightforward, it's crucial to be aware of the signs of potential complications. These can indicate a problem with the healing process or a possible infection.
Watch for these signs that require medical attention:
- Increased pain: A sudden, sharp, or worsening pain, especially pain not alleviated by medication, could be a sign of a problem.
- Persistent or worsening redness and swelling: While some is normal, if the area becomes increasingly red, swollen, or warm to the touch, it could indicate an infection.
- Unusual discharge: Any pus, foul-smelling drainage, or a significant increase in fluid oozing from the incision site warrants immediate medical review.
- Fever or chills: A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, accompanied by chills, is a strong sign of infection.
- Wound opening or "dehiscence": If the surgical incision starts to open or gape, this requires urgent medical intervention.
- Feeling a "pop" or "tear": This sensation can indicate that internal stitches have given way, potentially due to excessive physical activity.
The difference between normal healing and potential issues
To better understand what is happening during your recovery, here is a comparison of typical signs versus reasons for concern.
| Normal Healing | Potential Complication |
|---|---|
| Pain consistently decreases over time. | Pain is severe, worsening, or unresponsive to medication. |
| Swelling and redness gradually subside. | Swelling, redness, or warmth increases over time. |
| The incision line appears cleaner and less noticeable. | The incision begins to open or gape. |
| Any discharge is minimal and clear. | Discharge is foul-smelling, yellow, or pus-like. |
| You feel less restricted in movement as time passes. | A "popping" or "tearing" sensation is felt inside the wound. |
| You can no longer feel sutures under the skin. | Lumps or ridges persist and become tender or inflamed. |
| Absence of fever. | You develop a fever above 100.4°F (38°C). |
Dealing with a "spitting" stitch
On occasion, a small portion of a dissolvable stitch, or suture, may work its way to the surface of the skin before completely dissolving. This is known as a "spitting" stitch and is a relatively common and minor occurrence. The body, perceiving the foreign material, simply pushes it out.
If this happens, you may notice a small red spot or see a small piece of thread poking out. It can feel like a thin piece of fishing line. It is important not to pull the stitch out yourself, as this can interrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection. You can safely trim the visible portion with sterilized scissors or see your doctor for assistance. Always clean the area afterward. If the area becomes irritated or more painful, however, a doctor's visit is necessary.
How to care for your incision during recovery
Following your post-operative care instructions is the most important step to ensure your stitches dissolve correctly and healing progresses smoothly. Your doctor will provide specific guidance, but here are some general tips:
- Keep the area clean and dry: Follow your doctor's instructions for washing the incision site. In general, keep it dry for the first couple of days. After that, gently pat the area dry after showering.
- Avoid strenuous activity: Too much pressure or physical strain can put stress on the incision, potentially leading to a rupture of the internal stitches.
- Don't pick or scratch: Itching is a normal part of healing, but avoid picking at the incision or any visible stitches.
- Eat nutritious foods: A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals supports your body's healing processes.
- Communicate with your doctor: If you have any concerns or questions about the timeline or appearance of your healing incision, contact your healthcare provider. They can give you the most accurate information based on your specific procedure.
For more detailed advice on caring for absorbable sutures, consult reliable medical resources like Healthgrades: Dissolvable Stitches Guide: Care Tips and Preventing Complications.
Final considerations
In conclusion, the primary way you know if your internal stitches have dissolved is by monitoring the overall healing of your wound. As your body recovers, the pain, swelling, and redness should steadily decrease. When the internal stitches have been absorbed, you will no longer feel them under the skin, and the incision will continue to heal and fade. Being aware of the signs of normal healing and knowing the red flags for complications will help ensure a safe and successful recovery.
