 A surgical suture is used to hold body tissues together after an injury or surgery. Suturing generally involves using an aseptic needle with an attached length of thread. Surgical knots are used to secure the sutures. The suture removal procedure is done once when the wound is closed and the sutures are removed by a qualified nurse on the doctor's advice or the doctor themselves. After suture removal, you may have to cover your stitches with a bandage for 24 to 48 hours or as directed. Do not bump or hit the suture area as this could open the wound. Do not trim or shorten the ends of your stitches. If they rub on your clothes, put a gauze bandage in between the stitches and your clothes.