Understanding the Risks of Self-Suturing

There are many reasons one might consider self-suturing, such as a severe cut on the cheek, but the process is fraught with risks. If considering self-suturing a laceration on your cheek, you should understand the pain and complications that can arise.

The Pain and Injuries

Attempting to self-stitch a serious cut without numbing can be immensely painful and potentially harmful. In a past experience, a person managed to try self-suturing on their arm in the late '90s. They used no numbing substance and later reported severe swelling, a high fever for three days, and nerve damage. The primary reason? The cut was deep, with grey, stringy material hanging out, known as the intraepidermal inclusion cyst. This underscores the potential for serious complications.

Scarring and Nerve Damage

Even if you manage to close the wound, it's highly likely to result in a noticeable scar. Furthermore, the pain of the initial needle penetration is only the beginning. Face injuries have a high concentration of nerve endings, which means pain could continue even after the wound is closed. In the example mentioned, the participant still experienced nerve damage in the arm, highlighting the potential for long-term discomfort.

Professional Health Care Services

The most crucial point is: it is always better to seek professional medical assistance. Urgent care centers or emergency rooms are equipped to handle such situations with the necessary tools and trained personnel. If a cut is severe and an immediate visit to a healthcare facility is impossible, there are still ways to minimize pain.

Analgesic Measures

Firstly, mental preparation can be extremely helpful. Techniques such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises may help reduce the pain perception. Secondly, cold application can numb the skin temporarily. In cold climates, ice or even snow can be applied to the wound to temporarily reduce pain. Thirdly, using the right materials, such as waxed cotton thread, can help with the suturing process. Sharp needles are also essential to minimize trauma.

Prevent Infection and Complications

While these measures can help, they are not a substitute for professional care. The risk of infection remains high if you try to sew yourself, especially on an already compromised area like the face. Proper wound care, including cleansing and dressing, should be performed by healthcare professionals. In the example mentioned, the participant faced severe complications, including an infection, further emphasizing the importance of professional care.

Conclusion

In summary, self-suturing a cut, especially on the face, is not recommended due to the severe pain, the potential for increased risk of complications, and the likelihood of scarring. Always seek professional medical assistance to ensure the best outcome for your recovery and minimize the risks involved.