If suture marks are to be avoided, skin sutures should be removed by -
• Suture marks may be minimised by using monofilament sutures that are removed early (3–5 days).
• Sutures inserted under tension will leave marks.
• The wound can be strengthened post suture removal by the use of sticky strips.
• Fine sutures (6/0 or smaller) placed close to the wound margins tend to leave less scarring.
• Subcuticular suturing avoids suture marks either side of the wound or incision.
72 hours
1 week
2 weeks
3 weeks