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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Could Be The Time Taken By The Stitches To Dissolve?

Hi, I had a growth removed from the tip of my tongue. After surgery the doctor stitched it with vicryl .5. He did two stitches - one internally and the other on the surface of my tongue. After two weeks I had him remove the external stitch. It has been 5 weeks and I am still waiting for the other stitch to dissolve. It is very uncomfortable. The doctor initially said it would take 5 days. Now he says wait two more weeks before he opts to remove it but cutting my tongue again to locate the stitch. Could you tell me the maximum time I would need to wait for this stitch to dissolve? Thank you. Joe
Sat, 12 Apr 2014
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Normally the stitches start to break down in 1 to 2 weeks though it can take several months (sometimes up to 3 months) for them to resolve completely.

Usually after 3 to 5 weeks, the stitches have loss at least half of their strength and they continue to breakdown over the course of the continuing weeks.

At 5 weeks, it should be at least slightly less comfortable. Though it may be uncomfortable, it may be best to wait the additional weeks as suggested by your doctor to see if there would be any improvement.

I hope this helps

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What Could Be The Time Taken By The Stitches To Dissolve?

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Normally the stitches start to break down in 1 to 2 weeks though it can take several months (sometimes up to 3 months) for them to resolve completely. Usually after 3 to 5 weeks, the stitches have loss at least half of their strength and they continue to breakdown over the course of the continuing weeks. At 5 weeks, it should be at least slightly less comfortable. Though it may be uncomfortable, it may be best to wait the additional weeks as suggested by your doctor to see if there would be any improvement. I hope this helps