<s>[INST] 12 days ago, i rcvd 5 stitches in my upper lip.  the cut did not go above the lip line.  the dissolvable stitches are still showing, and there is a hard lump, both on my lip and above the lip line and it feels bruised.  Is there anything that I can or should be doing now to make this lump go down?  (Cut looks really good and healthy, good color).  How long should i allow the stitches to stay in before seeking medical attention to remove them? [/INST] Hi.Thanks for your query and an elucidate history.The stitches should be removed immediately and a short course of an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory medicines and steroids should be taken for 3 to 5 days only. The problem will get solved.If there is a small collection of fluid or pus , it will drain automatically when one of the stitches is pulled out. Do not fiddle with the lump with finger/ teeth/ tongue as usually happens as this will delay the healing and resolution. </s>