Can absorbable sutures be used in a hemi-thyroidectomy?

yes they can but it depends to some extent on the surgeon. Have a word with him before the op.

"The skin is closed using a subcuticular (just below the skin surface) aborbable stitch (e.g., Monocryl) or interrupted 4-0 or 5-0 nylon sutures"

Hi.You asked me to answer your question, therefore, I attempt to answer your question.

At first, I do not know about hemi-thyroidectomy.

I also hate surgeries, needles like that.

I have underwent surgeries. I had general anesthesia, so could not feel any painful.

Removing stitches is only once, I felt a little painful, and could tolerate it.

I believe you can tolerate the painful. On the other hand, if you chose partial esthesia, you feel too much pain. It was unbelievable painful.

When I had an surgery in my back, the surgeon avoid stitches. He suggested and chose medical tapes instead of it.As he said, tapes prevent from scars of my body. In fact, my scar is noticeable but small. I wish your doctor suggested to avoid stitches.

Many times, for this type of surgery, staples are used. You should be asking your surgeon these questions. They try to use things that have the best cosmetic appearance after healing so your surgeon should have the last say on this.