Do Stitches Dissolve After Jaw Surgery?
Wondering what happens with the stitches used during jaw surgery? Here is what you need to know.
Yes β the stitches used in orthognathic surgery are typically dissolvable (absorbable). They break down on their own over time and do not need to be removed.
- What kind of stitches are used?
- Absorbable sutures made of materials like Vicryl or Monocryl
- Designed to hold the incision together during early healing
- Begin breaking down at 2β3 weeks
- Are fully dissolved by 4β8 weeks
- Why dissolvable stitches are preferred:
- No need for a follow-up visit to remove them
- Less discomfort for the patient
- Ideal for inside the mouth where access is difficult
- Reduced risk of infection from retained suture material
- What to expect:
- You may notice small pieces of suture material falling off at 2β3 weeks
- This is normal and does not mean the incision is opening β the tissue underneath has already healed
- The incision under the stitches heals in 2β4 weeks
- By 4β6 weeks, the gum tissue is fully healed
When Non-Dissolvable Stitches Are Used
Occasionally, non-dissolvable stitches are used in specific areas. Your surgeon will tell you if any need to be removed at a follow-up appointment.
Clinical Guidance
The stitches used inside your mouth during jaw surgery are dissolvable and will break down on their own over 4β8 weeks. You do not need to have them removed. You may see small pieces of suture material coming off at 2β3 weeks β this is normal.