How to remove stitches for double eyelid surgery

Mar 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I previously had double eyelid surgery, and now it's time for suture removal. I'm not very clear about the specific procedure for suture removal and would like to know what the process involves.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu

The suture removal process after double eyelid surgery is typically performed by a professional doctor or nurse 5-7 days after the surgery, with the exact timing depending on the individual's healing progress.

First, use an iodophor swab to repeatedly wipe and disinfect the wound area, usually 2-3 times, to ensure a sterile environment at the surgical site. At the same time, care should be taken to avoid letting the disinfectant solution run into the eyes to prevent discomfort.

Using sterile forceps and scissors, carefully cut each suture knot and gently remove the sutures. This process should be painless, as a topical anesthetic is typically used and the sutures are very fine, causing no discomfort. After all sutures have been removed, disinfect the wound again with an iodophor swab to prevent infection.

Prior to suture removal, patients should keep the eye area clean and avoid touching or rubbing the eyes with their hands to prevent infection or interference with healing. For the three days following suture removal, patients should continue daily disinfection with iodophor or apply erythromycin eye ointment to the wound to prevent infection.

In daily life, patients should avoid strenuous exercise, lifting heavy objects, and maintain the wound area dry and clean.