Extruded “Spitting” Sutures - Kirsch Dermatology

When we repair a wound, we sew your skin together like layers on a cake, aligning each layer. A deep layer of sutures, also known as stitches, is used under the skin to guide the healing process, and a top layer of sutures is used to close the skin. The deep sutures are primarily dissolving ones. Dissolvable sutures are usually clear in color, and permanent sutures are dark blue or black in color.

Since all sutures are technically “foreign substances” the human body has a tendency to reject them. Ideally, this means the body breaks them down and dissolves them. Sometimes instead of dissolving the sutures, your body will push the suture out of your body. When it does this, we call it “spitting” a stitch. This happens quite commonly, and when a stitch does come out, it can come to the surface with an inflamed red spot. Usually you can feel something like fishing line around this area.

If the suture does “spit,” it is not something to worry about. If you are able to grab it with tweezers, give it a gentle pull. Applying a warm moist compress to the area may help bring more of the suture to the surface. At that point, the surface material may be cut or trimmed away. After removal or trimming, clean the area with a little rubbing alcohol and then apply Vaseline. If the area is persistently irritated or is getting increasingly painful then you may require an office visit.

Call Our Office for More Information Reach Us: (239) 300-9767 | Request an Appointment

Brandon Kirsch, MD FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist, as well as the founder of Kirsch Dermatology in Naples, Florida and the Chief of Dermatology at the Naples Community Hospital.

Dr. Brandon Kirsch Connect on LinkedIn

Dr. Brandon Kirsch is a board-certified dermatologist with over 10 years of experience, blending his expertise in medicine, law, and technology. He earned his medical degree from Brown University, followed by an internship at the Mayo Clinic and a dermatology residency at the University of North Carolina. Dr. Kirsch is the Chief Science Officer at Musely.com, has served as Chief of Dermatology at Naples Community Hospital, and held prominent roles in leading biopharmaceutical companies, including Arena Pharmaceuticals, Dermavant Sciences, and Brickell Biotech. Dr. Kirsch is renowned for his warm disposition, authoritative knowledge and trusted patient care in dermatology.

Share this Article