Care after stitches — Pr. ESSAMOUD Soufiane

Guide illustré des soins après une suture du visage : pansement, médicaments, signes d'alerte, protection solaire.

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🩹 Care and dressing (golden rules)

Do not touch the dressingLeave it in place.

No showeringNo bath while the stitches are in place. The area must stay dry.

If the dressing or Steri-strips fall offDon't panic. Simply apply new Steri-strips to hold the edges together.

💊 Medication

PainParacetamol if needed.

Antibiotics (not routine)Only if a specific prescription has been given (large wounds).

📅 Stitch removal

Prompt removal is essential for the cosmetic result. It is usually done between day 5 and day 7 — the exact date is given to you by your surgeon.

⚠️ When to worry?

See a doctor if:

Fever above 38 °C.

The area is very red, hot or swollen.

Discharge of pus.

The wound opens after a knock.

☀️ Beware of the sun

Risk of permanent pigmentation (brown mark). Full protection for 12 months.

Cap + total sunscreen (SPF 50+) every 2 hours.

This advice does not replace medical consultation. If in doubt, contact your surgeon.

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Frequently asked questions

When are stitches removed from a facial wound?

Usually between day 5 and day 7; your surgeon will give you the exact date. On the face, early removal is decisive for the cosmetic quality of the scar: stitches left too long leave marks.

Can we wash the face or shower with stitches in place?

No — neither shower nor bath while the stitches are in place. The area must stay strictly dry: moisture encourages infection and weakens the scar. Clean the rest of the face away from the wound.

The dressing or Steri-strips fell off — is that serious?

No, don't panic. Simply apply new Steri-strips to keep the wound edges together. On the other hand, do not touch the dressing as long as it stays in place.

Are antibiotics needed after stitches?

No, antibiotics are not routine. They are given only if your surgeon has specifically prescribed them, for extensive wounds. For pain, paracetamol is usually enough.

Why protect the scar from the sun, and for how long?

A recent scar exposed to the sun can become permanently pigmented, leaving a brown mark. Protection must be total for 12 months: a cap or hat, and SPF 50+ sunscreen reapplied every 2 hours.