Stitches

How long does it take for dissolving stitches to dissolve?

I got a cyst removed from my bottom lip 2 days ago and the knots of the stitches are starting to turn brown. I'm starting to freak out a little. Is this normal? How long before the stitches are gone?

Public Comments

1. The stitches usually dissolve in 5 to 7 days. First they'll start to stretch and look like spaghetti, then loosen so that you can pluck them out. (this is true for plain gut suture... if it's chromic gut, it lasts longer)
2. I got my wisdom teeth taken out a while back and got dissolvable stitches too.. I think they took about a week to fall out? But the knots turning brown is normal.. Beware, the whole stitch doesnt dissolve, so dont be suprised when there are little pieces of them in your mouth.. Its kinda gross :P