<s>[INST] I had a cyst removed from my right cheek. The incision is quite long and the plastic surgeon used 20-22 stitches on the outside and there are some on the inside. I ve noticed on day 3 after removing the steri strip, the skin between the stitched were swollen. I have stared to use polysporin on the area and am no longer covering it. My question is; will the swelling around the stitches worsen the appearance of the scar? I don t believe it is infected and am on antibiotics. I was also told not to talk too much but I have has to continue working. I am very concerned that the scar will be worse due to the swelling between the stitched. I have also noticed there is a part in the middle of this 2 1/2-3 inch incision that it appears there is Pliny on those stitches....a tiny line has appeared as if the skin is being tighten by the stitches. Please help. [/INST] Hi. Thanks for your query. The skin between stitches getting swollen is a normal thing within a ew day as a reactionary edema or there may be a mild infection not to be bothered about. The swelling over the skin will not affect the final outcome of the scar. Continue working but stop talking, people around you at the work will also understand. Yes, the stitch marks may create a problem but to alleviate all this - it is better to get a changed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medicines and a short course of oral steroids is highly recommended. </s>