Dissolvable stitches are used to close wounds or surgical incisions typically inside the body. Sometimes it takes a combination of dissolvable stitches below the surface and non-dissolvable stitches on the top to close some wounds or incisions. Because dissolvable stitches leave more scars than the non-dissolvable ones, they are most used internally rather than externally. One of the most common usages of dissolvable stitches is after tooth extraction, such as wisdom tooth removal. Here their use is to fix back the gum tissue into its original place. The number of stitches required is based upon the size of tissue flap and the needs of each individual.
Here are some other procedures that might use dissolvable stitches, including:
Cesarean
Some doctors prefer dissolvable stitches, while others prefer staples after cesarean delivery. It is a good idea to discuss the pros and cons of each with your doctor, so to know which type is best for you.
Breast cancer
If you have breast cancer, your surgeon will remove the cancerous tumor surrounding the tissue. If the doctors use dissolvable stitches, they will place the stitches in areas to prevent scarring as much as possible.
How long do they take to dissolve?
Dissolvable stitches are designed to break up on their own over a specific amount of time. The ingredients used to make them absorb easily into the skin. The times it takes for dissolvable to break down and disappear depends on several factors such as:
- The type of surgical procedure and the type of wound
- The types of stitches used to close the wound.
- The size of the suture
The time it takes for the stitches to dissolve can take from a few days to a few weeks to even several months. For example, tooth extraction, like wisdom tooth removal, may require dissolvable stitches that will dissolve within a few weeks.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call Bayside Dental and Orthodontics at 979-330-4113.