Ethilon Nylon Sutures by Johnson & Johnson

Ethilon sutures are Johnson & Johnson's monofilament nylon nonabsorbable sutures, trusted in skin closure, plastic and reconstructive procedures, and general soft tissue approximation where long-term wound support matters. Being monofilament, Ethilon passes through tissue smoothly and resists the bacterial adherence and tissue drag associated with braided materials — which is why so many clinicians reach for it on the surface, where infection risk and cosmetic outcome are both in play.

Most of the Ethilon we carry is black-dyed nylon on a stainless steel reverse cutting needle in a 3/8 circle configuration — the geometry surgeons expect for tough, resistant tissue like skin. The reverse cutting edge places its cutting surface on the outside of the needle arc, reducing the chance of the suture pulling through as it's tied. You'll find both standard and precision reverse cutting options, with needle sizes such as the 19 mm (662G, 1667G) and the larger 24 mm (663G) to match the depth and bite the wound calls for. Suture lengths run 18 inches, and the black color gives clear visibility against skin for accurate placement and easy removal.

A common question with nylon: since Ethilon is nonabsorbable, these sutures are intended for removal or, in buried applications, permanent retention — they do not break down and should be selected accordingly against absorbable alternatives. Gauge (USP size) and needle dimension are the two specs to confirm before ordering; product codes like 662H, 663G, and 1669H each pair a specific needle and suture size, so matching the code to your procedure prevents surprises at the field.

Explore related closure options in our Sutures collection, or browse the broader Surgical & Procedural category for needles, drapes, and instruments to complete your setup.