Careful removal of stitches from the eye or eyelid after surgery or injury, done under magnification for comfort and safety.
Stitches
Removed gently once the wound has healed
Stitches (sutures) are used to close wounds after eye surgery, eyelid surgery or injury. Some dissolve on their own, while others need to be removed once the tissue has healed.
On the eye, stitches are extremely fine and are removed using a microscope or slit lamp. On the eyelid, they are usually removed about a week after surgery.
Removing stitches at the right time helps the wound heal neatly, reduces irritation and lowers the risk of infection.
At a glance
Stitches are removed for these reasons:
The wound is strong enough without support.
Loose or exposed stitches can rub and feel scratchy.
Old stitches can collect bacteria.
Your surgeon will tell you when to return. Book sooner if a stitch feels loose, the eye becomes red or painful, or there is discharge.
Never try to remove eye stitches yourself. The eye is delicate, and removal needs proper instruments and magnification.
Contact us before your planned visit if
Consultant Ophthalmologist
Dr. Waleed Bunami
Meet the team
Microscope or slit lamp for precise, gentle removal.
Single-use or sterilised instruments for every patient.
We check that the wound has healed well.
Performed by an experienced ophthalmologist.
We confirm that the area has healed enough.
Drops numb the eye surface for comfort.
Each stitch is cut and gently removed with fine instruments.
We check the eye and give drops if needed.
Mild scratchiness or watering may occur for a few hours.
Use any prescribed drops.
A review may be planned to check healing.
Do
Avoid
Usually not. Numbing drops are used and most people feel only a light touch.
Usually a few minutes, depending on the number of stitches.
No. Some stitches dissolve by themselves. Your surgeon will tell you which type you have.
Most people can, unless the eye was dilated or vision is blurry.
Contact us to schedule the removal at the time your surgeon advised.
Sunday to Friday · 9 am – 1 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm