Cuts and Lacerations

According to medical guidelines, cuts typically need professional closure if they are deeper than a quarter inch, longer than half an inch, have gaping edges, won't stop bleeding after 10 minutes of pressure, or are located on the face, hands, joints, or other cosmetically sensitive areas. When in doubt, it's best to have a medical provider evaluate the wound, as proper closure within the first few hours significantly improves healing and reduces scarring.

Wounds should ideally be evaluated and closed within 6-8 hours of injury for optimal healing and infection prevention. Waiting longer increases infection risk and may result in more visible scarring. Facial wounds should be treated even sooner when possible. If your injury occurred recently, visit us today rather than waiting.

Tetanus protection depends on your vaccination history and wound type. If your last tetanus booster was more than 10 years ago, or more than 5 years ago for dirty or puncture wounds, you'll likely need an update. We maintain tetanus vaccines on-site and can administer them during your visit. Bring your vaccination records if available, but we can still treat you if you're unsure of your status.

Not all wounds require antibiotics. Our medical providers assess infection risk based on wound characteristics, location, how the injury occurred, and your medical history. Antibiotics may be prescribed for high-risk wounds such as animal bites, heavily contaminated wounds, or wounds in patients with diabetes or compromised immune systems. If prescribed, we'll send the prescription electronically to your preferred pharmacy.

Bring your photo ID, insurance card if applicable, a list of current medications, and your vaccination records if available. If possible, cover the wound with a clean cloth or bandage before arrival. Let us know if you have any allergies, especially to local anesthetics or antibiotics.

Seek emergency care immediately for uncontrollable bleeding despite direct pressure, wounds with severe tissue damage or amputation, deep wounds to the chest or abdomen, wounds with signs of arterial bleeding (bright red blood spurting), or if you're experiencing shock symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or rapid heartbeat. For most cuts and lacerations, urgent care provides appropriate, cost-effective treatment.

Cost varies based on wound complexity, closure method, and your insurance coverage. We accept most major insurance plans and provide transparent pricing. Our team can discuss costs and payment options during check-in. Urgent care treatment is typically much more affordable than emergency room care for non-life-threatening wounds.

Yes, we can remove sutures placed at other facilities. Bring any discharge instructions from your original treatment if available. Suture removal timing varies by location: facial sutures typically come out in 5-7 days, while sutures on the body or extremities may stay in 7-14 days. Our medical providers will assess whether your sutures are ready for removal.