Is it bad to leave stitches in for too long?

While leaving stitches in too long doesn't typically raise health concerns, it does pose cosmetic risks. In particular, the sutures may create skin marks and scarring that wouldn't occur if the stitches were removed on time, according to Seattle Children's Hospital.

The longer the stitches are left in, the more difficult they are to remove, reports Seattle Children's Hospital. Bulging scars may also lead to the formation of keloids, which cause itching and discomfort. In some cases, early removal of sutures is possible, especially with facial wounds, according to Drugs.com. When the wound has healed, early removal of the stitches minimizes risks of scarring and marks.