Your doctor will tell you when to have your stitches or staples removed, usually in 7 to 14 days. How long you'll be told to wait will depend on things like where the wound is located, how big and how deep the wound is, and what your general health is like. Do not remove the stitches on your own.
Stitches on the face are usually removed within a week. But stitches and staples on other areas of the body, such as on the back or belly or over a joint, may need to stay in place longer, often a week or two. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if :
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Depending on the type and location of the cut, you will have a scar. Scars usually fade over time. Keep the area clean, but you won't need a bandage.
It usually doesn't hurt when the doctor removes the stitches or staples. You may feel a tug as each stitch or staple is removed.
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