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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Long Do Stitches On Lips Take To Heal?

Hello, I have had a blemish remove from my bottom lip 12 days ago, four stitches which Don t seem as they will dissolve in the near future, how long should I put up with them before I seek help. I have trimmed a few tails off, as they were making my lip more sore, but the remaining stitches are still bothering me . I would appreciate your comments. Judith
posted on Tue, 30 Sep 2014
Twitter Thu, 13 Nov 2014 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 13 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on
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Dermatologist,  's  Response
Hello Judith,

Thank You for your query!

Dissolvable stitches are made of different materials and it depends which one is used for your lip. Commonly, they start to break down 2-4 weeks by enzymes in our own skin. At times it might take up to months to dissolve completely.
If your lip is sore day after day, oozing fluid/pus, painful the you need to seek medical help to rule out infection. If not, then usually once the lip heals and the stitches are not still dissolved, then I would go to a physician and get them removed. However, don't try to cut anything on your own at home as it can infect the wound and a little tug and pull can invite complications.

Hope I have answered your query and hope you feel better soon !!


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How Long Do Stitches On Lips Take To Heal?

Hello Judith, Thank You for your query! Dissolvable stitches are made of different materials and it depends which one is used for your lip. Commonly, they start to break down 2-4 weeks by enzymes in our own skin. At times it might take up to months to dissolve completely. If your lip is sore day after day, oozing fluid/pus, painful the you need to seek medical help to rule out infection. If not, then usually once the lip heals and the stitches are not still dissolved, then I would go to a physician and get them removed. However, don t try to cut anything on your own at home as it can infect the wound and a little tug and pull can invite complications. Hope I have answered your query and hope you feel better soon !!