Suture Removal Timing for Superficial Lacerations
Non-absorbable sutures used for superficial lacerations should be removed 7-9 days after placement for most body locations, with facial sutures removed earlier at 5-7 days to minimize scarring. 1, 2
Standard Removal Timeline by Location
- Facial lacerations: Remove sutures at 5-7 days to optimize cosmetic outcomes and minimize scarring 2
- Trunk and extremity lacerations: Remove sutures at 7-9 days, which is considered the suitable timeframe for non-absorbable transcutaneous sutures 1
- Scalp lacerations: Remove sutures at 7-10 days 3
- Joint areas and high-tension sites: May require sutures to remain 10-14 days for adequate tensile strength 3
Rationale for Timing
The 7-9 day window is based on wound tensile strength development. By this time, the dermis has regained sufficient strength to maintain wound integrity without external support. 1 Removing sutures at the recommended time prevents new skin growth from covering the sutures and reduces scarring. 4
Facial wounds require earlier removal (5-7 days) specifically because the rich vascular supply accelerates healing, and prolonged suture retention increases scarring risk in cosmetically sensitive areas. 2
Critical Pre-Removal Assessment
Before removing any sutures, examine the wound for:
- Signs of infection: increasing pain, erythema, purulent drainage, warmth, or systemic signs 5
- Wound dehiscence: separation of wound edges or gaping 1
- Adequate healing: wound edges should be well-approximated without tension 6
If infection or dehiscence is present, delay suture removal and manage the complication first. 4
Absorbable Suture Considerations
If absorbable sutures were used instead (such as subcuticular continuous sutures with poliglecaprone or polyglactin), removal is unnecessary. These materials retain approximately 50-75% of their original tensile strength after 1 week and provide extended wound support during the critical healing phase. 1 This extended support is why continuous absorbable subcuticular sutures show lower rates of wound dehiscence compared to interrupted non-absorbable sutures that are removed at 7-9 days. 1
Post-Removal Care
After suture removal:
- Keep the area clean and dry for continued healing 6
- Avoid excessive tension on the wound during activities 6
- Consider applying steri-strips for additional support, particularly in high-tension areas 1, 6
- Monitor for delayed complications: infection signs or wound separation in the days following removal 6
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Removing sutures too early (before 5 days for face, 7 days for body) risks wound dehiscence due to inadequate tensile strength 1
- Leaving sutures too long increases scarring, tissue reaction, and risk of suture tracks (particularly problematic on the face) 2, 4
- Failing to assess wound readiness before removal can lead to dehiscence if healing is delayed 4
- Not providing post-removal support in high-tension areas may result in wound widening 6