When Do Stitches Dissolve After Labioplasty and What to Pay Attention to?

After labiaplasty, slight tension, sensitivity, edema and occasional thread tip can be expected in the suture line. The appearance of a seam does not always mean there is a problem. Some threads may loosen and fall out on their own within a few days or weeks; Some may be felt for a longer period of time.

Do the stitches dissolve after labiaplasty?

Dissolvable stitches are mostly used in labiaplasty surgery. The disintegration of these stitches by the body does not occur immediately. The suture material supports the tissue until the incision line becomes strong enough and then shrinks over time.

“When does it melt completely?” There is no single answer to the question. The type of stitch used, the location of the stitch line, the level of edema and the person’s wound healing characteristics affect the duration. For this reason, when you see the stitch, you should show it to your doctor during the check-up instead of pulling it or trying to cut it with scissors.

When are stitches less noticeable?

In the first days, edema and sensitivity may make the suture line more visible. As the swelling decreases, the stitches will be less felt. While the skin healing is completed, a slight stiffness or pulling feeling may continue for a while.

It is normal for the appearance to not be the same every day during the recovery period. One side appearing more swollen than the other, sensitivity changing throughout the day, or noticing the tip of the thread from time to time does not necessarily mean a complication. However, the doctor who performed the surgery can best evaluate your personal situation.

What should be taken into consideration in the care of the stitching area?

• Follow the method recommended by your physician for cleaning and dressing.
• Do not rub the area vigorously, do not pull the stitches, or tear off the scabs.
• Avoid tight underwear and clothing that creates friction during the recovery period.
• Do not use tampons, vaginal products, or sexual intercourse until you are given permission to do so.
• Follow the time period recommended by your doctor for shower, sitz bath, pool and sea.
• Use antibiotics, creams, or painkillers only as recommended.

What should be done if the sewing thread is visible?

The appearance of a thread end or a small piece coming loose may occur with dissolving stitches. Pulling the thread can damage the tissue and cause bleeding. If the inserted thread rubs against clothing, causes pain, or there is increasing redness around it, contact your physician.

In which symptoms should a physician be consulted?

If increasing pain, gradually increasing swelling, foul-smelling discharge, significant redness and temperature increase, fever, continuous bleeding or opening in the wound line are noticed during healing, the physician should be contacted without waiting.

These symptoms do not always mean there is a serious problem; however, it should not be considered normal recovery without examination. Check-up is necessary, especially if the pain has decreased but becomes evident again or if your general condition deteriorates.

This article has been prepared for general information purposes. It is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or personalized treatment advice.