Do not wash the area for 24 hours after the suturing. Then begin washing it gently with warm water and liquid soap one or two times a day. Apply an antibiotic ointment after you wash the wound to keep a thick scab from forming over the stitches. Swimming and baths are safe 48 hours after the suturing.
Stitches are ready for removal at different times, depending on the site.
Face. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 to 4 Neck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Scalp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Chest or abdomen. Stitches removed too late can leave unnecessary skin marks or scarring.