Accidents happen when you least expect them. From a kitchen mishap to a sports injury, cuts and lacerations can require more than a bandage. Stitches are often needed to close wounds properly, reduce the risk of infection, and promote faster healing. At Vista Medical Center, patients receive professional wound care, including stitches, in a safe and welcoming setting — without the long wait times of the emergency room.
Led by Dr. Haroon Rashid, Vista Medical Center provides full-spectrum healthcare across Northern Virginia. With urgent care, on-site diagnostics, and extended hours, Vista offers efficient treatment for both minor and moderate injuries that require stitches.
When Are Stitches Needed?
Stitches (also called sutures) are used to close deeper or longer wounds that cannot heal well on their own. They help the body repair itself by holding skin together while new tissue grows. Stitches may be required for:
- Cuts longer than half an inch
- Wounds that continue bleeding after 10–15 minutes of pressure
- Deep puncture wounds or gashes
- Injuries with exposed fat, muscle, or bone
- Lacerations on the face, hands, or joints where scarring or movement may be a concern
Prompt treatment ensures the wound is cleaned, closed, and properly protected.
Benefits of Getting Stitches
Receiving stitches from trained medical professionals offers several advantages:
- Faster Healing – Stitches hold the wound together, allowing tissue to repair more efficiently.
- Reduced Risk of Infection – Proper cleaning and closure help prevent bacteria from entering.
- Better Cosmetic Results – Precise stitching minimizes scarring, especially for facial wounds.
- Protection for Sensitive Areas – Joints, hands, and other high-use areas heal more reliably when stitched.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The process of getting stitches at Vista Medical Center is straightforward:
- Examination – A provider evaluates the wound to determine if stitches are necessary.
- Cleaning – The wound is carefully cleaned to remove debris and reduce infection risk.
- Numbing – Local anesthesia is applied to ensure comfort.
- Stitching – The wound is closed with sutures tailored to its size and location.
- Aftercare Instructions – Patients receive guidance on how to care for stitches at home.
Most procedures take less than 30 minutes, and patients leave with clear instructions for follow-up care.
Recovery and Aftercare
Proper care after stitches is essential for healing. Patients should:
- Keep the wound clean and dry.
- Follow all instructions about changing bandages.
- Avoid strenuous activity that may reopen the wound.
- Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or drainage.
- Return for stitch removal (if non-dissolving stitches were used).
Vista providers offer follow-up appointments to ensure healing is on track.
Why Choose Vista Medical Center for Stitches?
Vista Medical Center is a trusted choice for wound care because of its:
- Comprehensive, Personalized Medical Care – Wound treatment is supported by urgent care and primary care services for seamless follow-up.
- Convenient Access & Extended Hours – Open daily from 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM at three locations: Crystal City, North Arlington, and Annandale.
- Experienced Providers – Dr. Haroon Rashid and his skilled team deliver safe, precise care for cuts and lacerations.
- Family-Friendly Care – Services available for both children and adults in a welcoming environment.
Patients can rely on Vista for immediate, compassionate care when stitches are needed.
Get the Wound Care You Need
If you or a loved one suffers a cut that may require stitches, don’t wait. Vista Medical Center offers prompt, professional wound care at convenient locations in Crystal City, North Arlington, and Annandale. Contact for more information: Crystal City (703) 558-4922, North Arlington (703) 300-9179, Annandale (703) 256-7200.
