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My dog has bumps after surgery. Are dissolvable stitches not dissolving?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | neutered | 8 months and 16 days old | 16 lbs

My dog recently under went a Cryptorchid Unilateral Inguinal/Abdominal surgery. A few weeks after surgery I noticed a hard small bump on his stomach. I returned him to the vet. The internal stitching was protruding. The Doctor then trimmed the stitches I was told that the stitches did not dissolve. A second hardened bump has now developed a little lower than the first bump. Does dissolvable stitching sometimes not dissolve? Is non dissolvable stitching ever used internally?

1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 23rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! No, non-dissolving stitches aren’t used UNDER the skin and always dissolve. What is likely happening is that Rocky is reacting to the suture as it breaks down. It happens somewhat often. It takes several months for the suture to dissolve completely. I would warm compress the area and give it time. Watch for secondary infection and any protruding suture. You can always send us a picture as well in another post. Good luck!

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