Knowing when a wound requires stitches can be difficult for the regular person. If a laceration does not get the proper treatment, the risk for infection, nerve and muscle damage, and scarring increases. It requires an expert to identify the correct method for laceration repair. Dr. Schultz is the go-to dermatologist in NYC for men, women, teens, and children who require stitches following an injury. Using specialized tools and the right method for suturing, Dr. Schultz can reduce the risk of complications, promote healing, and minimize scarring. It's important to see a specialist as soon as possible after an injury. In most cases, that means being seen within 24 hours in order to maximize the body's ability to heal. Some of the most common indicators that a wound needs stitches include:

  • The wound is deep
  • The wound has debris in it
  • The wound won't stop bleeding
  • The wound is more than half an inch long
  • The wound was created by an animal bite
  • The wound is a puncture from a rusty, dirty, or sharp object

When your body heals a laceration on its own, chances are that the wound had irregular margins that cause more scarring. It isn't always possible to completely avoid scarring. However, lacerations that are repaired with stitches are closed with clear margins and the right technique to promote optimal healing. The difference can be massive. Lacerations that are left to heal on their own may form dark, lumpy, or indented scars. Alternatively, lacerations repaired with stitches tend to heal as flat, light-colored scars that are more likely to fade over time.

Recovering from a laceration that was repaired with stitches is a much easier process than letting a wound heal on its own. The clean margins and closure of the wound allow your body to heal faster because it reduces the wound's size. Your wound may be closed with regular sutures or dissolvable sutures. Depending on the location and size of your wound, it may take between 5-14 days for the sutures to be removed. Dissolvable stitches tend to absorb into the skin within two weeks. Following the suture removal, Dr. Schultz will instruct you on how to care for the new, delicate skin to further promote healing and minimize scarring.

Dr. Schultz has become the Upper East Side and NYC's go-to dermatologist because of his expertise and close attention to detail. After carefully examining your laceration, Dr. Schultz may recommend stitches to close the wound. While this isn't the case for every laceration, Dr. Schultz will further discuss his recommended treatment plan so that you know why stitches are necessary. At Park Avenue Skin Care, we've designed our office to be a clean and soothing environment with the best equipment and modern furniture. That means you'll be kept comfortable throughout your entire visit.

When you see Dr. Schultz for a laceration repair with stitches, your comfort is his priority. After examining your wound, Dr. Schultz may determine that stitches are the best way to promote healing and minimize scarring. The wound will then be cleaned, and you will receive a shot to make the area numb. The shot of lidocaine is most frequently described as a quick sting, and it works wonders to prevent you from feeling any pain throughout the procedure. Depending on your individual case, Dr. Schultz may opt for regular or dissolvable sutures. The process of suturing a wound is straightforward and fast, but it requires an expert to make sure that the right technique and type of suture is used. Before you leave, you'll learn everything you need to know about how to care for your wound and the stitches as it heals. If your stitches aren't dissolvable, the Park Avenue Skin Care team will schedule you for a follow-up appointment to have the sutures removed after the appropriate amount of time.

Patient Reviews

I've been seeing Dr. Schultz for the last 8 years and during that time, I've recommended him to countless friends for both cosmetic and medical dermatologic help. I trust him completely both diagnostically and aesthetically. When I had shingles, he was wonderful, incredibly supportive and kind. And when I eased into doing more cosmetic dermatology, he was– and continues to be– patient, careful and cautious. He listens to concerns and really hears what your goal outcome is and works with you to make it happen. I wanted to maintain a natural look while keeping my skin looking fresh and that's just what he's done for me. I always leave his office feeling prettier and well-cared for! If you have a medical concern or something about your skin you want to upgrade, you can't do better than Dr. Schultz and his wonderful team. And the products are amazing as well!

- Laura B.

Dr. Schultz is the most thorough and good natured dermatologist I have ever seen. I have been a patient of his for more than 20 years. He has taught me everything I know about the value of taking care of my skin, a gift that keeps on giving. He also takes the time to listen to me, to see me as an individual and doesn't treat my needs as a one size fits all doctor. I really appreciate his kindness, patience and expertise. I absolutely love his product line and have definitely reaped the rewards from using it, especially his glycolic peel pads and moisturizer, which I can't live without. My skin feels softer, smoother, appears more translucent and actually looks younger! He helped me to see beyond the lines and wrinkles, although he so good at helping to keep those at bay while maintaining a very natural appearance. His staff is outstanding. They make you feel welcome, like family, from the moment you walk through the door. Angela, Monika, Deborah and all of the support staff are extraordinary at what they do. Thank you Dr. Schultz and everyone at Park Ave Skincare. You're the best!

- Laura M.

Dr. Schultz has truly transformed my skin, so much so that I can confidently leave the house without wearing makeup now. During my first meeting with him, he intently listened to my skin concerns, we discussed what my goals were, and he explained pragmatically what treatments and products he recommended for me. I truly appreciate his fantastic bedside manner and conservative approach. I am a perfectionist in every aspect of my life, including my skin, and he understood this and was committed to helping me achieve every skin goal I had. The entire staff is just so fantastic and friendly, from reception to the PAs. They make you feel welcome and extremely comfortable, which to me is very important when visiting any doctor’s office. As someone who works too much and never gets enough sleep, my skin was looking very dull and lifeless. My skin is now full of life again and has an incredible glow to it which I have never had before. And I owe it all to the incredible Dr. Schultz.

- Kelly D.

My partnership with Dr Schultz began more than 30 years ago. As a generous friend, advisor, skilled surgeon, and superb cosmetic diagnostician, he has enabled me to look my best. He has kept me abreast of the most sophisticated procedures and in so doing, has maximized my appearance, always guided by what will be most beneficial for me. He is someone I go to for advice and care and his staff is another manifestation of this care. I don’t know many patients who can say this, and I feel fortunate to be among them.

- Ellen R.

In the four years that I've been a patient of Dr. Schultz, my acne-prone skin has gone from constant breakouts to smooth and clear. These days, I feel confident and comfortable enough in my skin to wear minimal makeup, if any—which I never would have done in years past. He and his warm, friendly staff always go above and beyond; he takes the time to listen, talk with me, and create the best plan for my skin. It's clear he has my best interests in mind, and I trust him wholeheartedly. I would highly recommend him to friends, family, and frankly, anyone who asks.

- Deanna P.

Each session with Dr. Schultz is a mini education in skin care. He approaches each patient as a unique individual with different needs. I’m Asian and he’s explained to me how that impacts treatment in a clear manner that a layperson can understand. At each examination, he recites detailed notes to his staff which he then refers back to at each future appointment, adjusting and tweaking treatment plans when necessary. Over the past two years I’ve seen a remarkable improvement in my blemishes and overall complexion and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking to enhance their appearance.

- Sherry G.

I have been a patient of Dr. Schultz for many years, and I continue to be amazed at his medical approach, patience, and professionalism. He takes the time to listen to my health concerns, explains how and why he would like to issue a treatment in a way that I understand , answers all of my questions, and all of his procedures and painless and thorough. He is very attentive, results-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable. He follows up and is committed to my health and satisfaction. The Park Avenue Skincare is a calm environment and the staff are all very friendly, warm, and respectful. It's easy to get appointments at a time that works for me and they are always on time and considerate. I think so highly of him and his practice that I sent my mom to him, and continue to go to his office even though my life is based in midtown west! I have great confidence in the care that he gives.

- Katrina A.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do all lacerations need stitches?

    No. Depending on the laceration's size, depth, and location, stitches may be Read More

  • Can I also get a tetanus injection at the time of my appointment?

    Yes. Your health and safety are our priority. If there is a Read More

  • How quickly can I get an appointment after an injury that requires stitches?

    We work hard to make sure that our patient's needs are met. Read More

  • How long does it take for the stitches to come out?

    It depends on the type of stitches you receive. Dissolvable stitches tend Read More

Rejuvenate Your Skin

Make your skin care a priority with leading-dermatologist and New York Magazine’s “Top Doctor”: Dr. Neal Schultz.



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