Do not remove stitches at home unless a clinician has told you it is safe to do so
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
Clean the area gently with soap and water
Sterilize fine-tipped tweezers and small scissors with rubbing alcohol
Use good lighting and a clean surface
Pull the knot up slightly with the tweezers
Cut only one side of each stitch close to the skin
Gently pull the cut thread out with the tweezers
Repeat for each stitch
Stop if the skin opens, bleeds, or the stitch feels stuck
Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze if there is minor bleeding
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if recommended by a clinician
Cover the area with a clean bandage if needed
Watch for redness, swelling, pus, fever, or worsening pain
Seek medical care if any signs of infection appear or if you are unsure about removal