What is the healing time for a wound?

The time required for a wound to heal depends on its size, severity, depth, and location. For instance, minor injuries (scratches, small cuts, etc.), which do not present significant tissue damage or infection, heal within approximately four to six weeks. However, this does not include scar tissue, which takes longer to form and heal. Therefore, a full healing process can take a year or more, as the new tissue gains strength and solidity, replacing the temporary tissue in the injured area (remodeling phase).

The new skin will never regain 100% strength, but it will reach about 80% strength approximately 11 to 14 weeks after the injury has occurred.

Regarding deep or extensive wounds, they heal more quickly when they are closed (sutures, staples, glues, etc.) than when they are left open. Indeed, closing the wound reduces the area that the body needs to rebuild, focusing on healing a smaller surface. This is why surgical wounds generally heal faster than other types of wounds, taking six to eight weeks to heal.

The healing duration also depends on how you care for it. Wounds heal faster or better if you keep them covered. They also need moisture to heal. However, certain systemic disorders (diabetes, etc.), the use of certain medications, or immunosuppression can slow down or interrupt healing. This can occur even if your injury is due to a surgical procedure or a medical procedure. Finally, if a wound is located in a friction area (groin, etc.), it will take longer to heal.

If a wound has not healed within four weeks, it is referred to as "chronic" and can persist for weeks, or even months. In many cases, it cannot heal without medical intervention.