Should I Return to the Doctor for Skin Adhesive After Stitch Removal?
I’m a 28-year-old male, and I recently had stitches taken out following surgery for a lipoma. The incision measures roughly 2.8 cm. Post-removal, one side of the cut appears to have healed, but the other is slightly gaping and occasionally bleeds—often just a tiny bit if I touch it, particularly after showering. My concern is whether I should be doing something to assist the healing of the open section, like using a special adhesive to bring the edges closer together. I want to ensure it heals well and to minimize scarring. I’ll share an image in the comments for reference. Thank you!
Answers (1)
3/18/2025, 5:40:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s great that you’re attentive to your healing process after your surgery. Given your description, it sounds like you’re dealing with a slightly open incision that could benefit from extra care to promote healing and minimize scarring.
Main Points:
- The opening in your incision may need additional support for proper healing.
- Using a skin adhesive can help, but it's important to understand when it’s appropriate.
- Monitoring for infection signs is crucial.
Explanation:
After stitches are removed, it’s normal for the skin to take some time to fully heal. If one side of your incision is gaping and bleeding occasionally, that's a signal that it might not be healing as well as it should. Skin adhesives (often called surgical glue) can help the edges of the skin come together and provide a supportive environment for healing.
However, it’s essential to ensure there are no signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, discharge, or fever). If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
Next Steps:
- Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water. Pat it dry afterward.
- Consider Using a Skin Adhesive: If the area seems stable and there are no signs of infection, a skin adhesive may help bring the edges together. However, refer to product instructions and apply it carefully.
- Moisturize: Consider applying a thin layer of a recommended healing ointment (like petroleum jelly) to keep the incision moist, which can help with healing and reduce scarring.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the incision for any signs of infection. If it begins to bleed more, becomes increasingly gaped, or shows signs of infection, it's important to seek medical evaluation.
- Avoid Irritation: Refrain from picking at the area and try to avoid tight clothing that may rub against it, especially after showers.
If you're still concerned about the appearance or healing of the incision, and especially if the bleeding continues or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult your healthcare provider for further advice or to discuss reapplying stitches or adhesives more thoroughly.
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