THE SHORT ANSWER
As a general guide: face 5–7 days with 5-0 or 6-0; scalp 7–10 days with 3-0 or 4-0; trunk and arms 7–14 days with 3-0 or 4-0; legs and feet 10–14 days with 3-0 or 4-0; hands 10–14 days with 4-0 or 5-0. Adjust for tension, healing and local protocols.
Typical guide by site
- Face — 5-0 or 6-0, remove at 5–7 days
- Scalp — 3-0 or 4-0 (or staples), remove at 7–10 days
- Trunk — 3-0 or 4-0, remove at 10–14 days
- Arms — 4-0, remove at 7–10 days
- Legs and feet — 3-0 or 4-0, remove at 10–14 days
- Hands and fingers — 4-0 or 5-0, remove at 10–14 days
- Over joints — often left longer, around 14 days
Factors that change timing
Older patients, smokers, people with diabetes or on steroids, and wounds under high tension may need sutures left longer. Removing facial sutures early reduces track marks; adhesive strips can support the wound afterwards.
Common questions
- When should facial stitches come out?
- Usually at 5–7 days, to minimise suture marks. Adhesive strips can support the wound after removal.
- What size suture is used on the face?
- Fine sutures, typically 5-0 or 6-0, are used on the face to reduce scarring.
General education for health professionals only. Always follow your local clinical guidelines and scope of practice.
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Suturing & Wound Management
Sat 5 Dec 2026 · Sunshine Coast · 16 places · 1:4 consultant supervision
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