Scalp Cut Closed With Staples or Stitches: Care Instructions

A scalp laceration is a cut on your head. You may be able to see the cut, or it may be covered by your hair. The cut may throb or feel tender, and you may have a headache.

The doctor used staples or stitches to close the cut. This helps the cut heal and reduces scarring.

Your doctor will tell you when to have your stitches or staples removed. This is usually in 7 to 14 days. How long you'll be told to wait depends on where the cut is located, how big and how deep the cut is, and what your general health is like.

Your scalp may itch as it heals. This is more likely if the doctor trimmed or shaved your hair in order to place the staples or stitches.

The doctor may have given a tetanus vaccine as part of the treatment.

The doctor has checked you carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

• Follow your doctor's instructions about when to come back to have the staples or stitches removed.
• Keep the cut dry for the first 24 to 48 hours. After this, you can shower if your doctor okays it. Pat the cut dry. Don't soak the cut, such as in a bathtub. Your doctor will tell you when it's safe to get the cut wet.
• If your doctor told you how to care for your cut, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
  • Wash the area with clean water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. They can slow healing.
  • You may cover the cut with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline.
  • Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.
  • Avoid using an antibiotic ointment unless the doctor recommends it.
• Avoid any activity that could cause your cut to reopen.
• Do not remove the staples or stitches on your own. Your doctor will tell you when to come back to have them removed.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products. These things slow healing and recovery. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about quit programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.