Stitch Removal

How Is Stitch Removal Performed

Types of stitches

There are two different types of stitch removal. The type of material used to close the wound determines whether the stitches need to be taken out: 

  • Non-absorbable sutures are made from materials like nylon or silk and must be removed by our registered nurse.

  • Absorbable (or dissolvable) stitches are used for internal stitching or sometimes on the skin. The body's enzymes break them down over time, so they don't need to be removed manually although if you are concerned you can book a consultation with our registered nurse. 

The procedure

The stitch removal process is generally quick, straight forward, and painless. 

  1. Assessment: Our registered nurse will first examine the wound to ensure it has healed correctly and shows no signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.

  2. Cleaning: The area around the wound is thoroughly cleaned to prevent bacteria from being pulled into the wound during removal.

  3. Removal: Using sterile tweezers and special scissors or a scalpel, our registered nurse gently lifts each knot and snips the suture close to the skin. We then carefully pull the stitch out. This process avoids dragging the contaminated, exposed portion of the suture through the healing tissue.

  4. Aftercare: Following removal, the wound is cleaned again. Adhesive strips (Steri-Strips) or a new dressing may be applied to provide support and minimize scarring as the wound continues to heal. 

Importance of professional removal

While it may seem simple, it is important not to remove your own stitches unless specifically instructed by your doctor. Our registered nurse role is to ensure proper healing and avoid complications, such as: 

  • Infection: Removing stitches with non-sterile tools or prematurely can introduce bacteria into the wound.

  • Reopening the wound: If removed too early, the wound may not be strong enough to stay closed.

  • Scarring: Leaving stitches in for too long can increase the risk of scarring. Our registered nurse can time the removal to minimize this risk.

A person removing a bandage from a wound with bandages laid out on a surface, depicted with an upward arrow indicating removal.

Stitch Removal Price List

  • Stitch removal £45.00

  • Stitch removal home visit £65.00

    Home visits are typically within a 5 mile radius from works location however if further than 5 miles an additional cost would apply.

Book now
Diagram of different types of surgical stitches, including stitches, staples, steri-strips, and glue, demonstrating how to close a wound.
Close-up of a skin area with multiple stitched wounds and sutures.
A person wearing blue gloves is performing a minor surgical procedure on a person's leg using surgical tools.
“Refresh, Regenerate & Reassure. Find your Tranquility!”