• Dissolvable stitches do not need removing unless your nurse practitioner or doctor has specifically requested this. They should dissolve within 2 weeks but sometimes take slightly longer.
• If the stitches are not dissolvable then your nurse practitioner or doctor should tell you when to have them removed. They will stay in for 5-14 days depending on how severe the wound was.
• Unless you are told otherwise, stitches should be removed by your practice nurse within your GP surgery.

Simple analgesics can be used after a wound, most of which can be bought over the counter in shops, supermarkets or pharmacy’s. Examples are:

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen

You may have been prescribed an alternative pain killer, please refer to specific advice for that tablet if this is the case.

Wounds closed using stitches should have a scab develop when the stitches are taken out. It can take around 2 weeks to heal fully. Sometimes it can take longer, depending how severe the wound was.

• Redness, foul smell, discharging pus or feeling unwell are signs of infection. If you have any of these seek medical advice through your GP or local Emergency Department.
• If after the stitches are removed the wound re-opens or doesn’t seem like it has closed properly then return to your local Emergency Department.
• If you have any concerns or queries about your stitches, contact NHS 111 or your local GP. If your concern is an emergency, go to your local Emergency Department.