Removing stitches

Posted by Team NZ (156 days ago)

Had an operation (arm) when overseas recently and need to have a couple of stitches removed.

We dont have a family doctor any suggestions where to go to remove the stitches.

Is it safe for wifey to do if we use surgical tweezers?

Thanks

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by neenib (154 days ago)

this sounds grose, but my husband had a tooth extracted and had stitches. I walked into the bathroom one day to find him removing the stitches himself. I was shocked and asked why he didn't go to the dentist and he said why pay for a whole new consultation (no doubt thousands) when he could take them out himself for free. He hasn't had a problem and that was months and months ago.

Just sterilise the tweezers in boiling water for 5 minutes and if the stitches are ready to come out, then I reckon go for it!

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by namaste (115 days ago)

If there is no sign of infection (redness, swelling, pain) just sterilize your tweezers, snip the stitches down the middle if you need to and pull from the sides. It's very simple. There can be some tugging and pulling sensation if there has been some healing/crusting around the stitching. If so, dab the wound first with some hydrogen peroxide beforehand or during.

(I am based in Hong Kong)