My daughter had the walker. Now I am glad that is what i chose for her. I had staples removed from my side of my knee 10 years ago. They do hurt some what but after they are out they don't. I agree that they are gross. My daughters doctor wants to use them when she gets her hardware removal. I told him no way. She will only be 10 then and i can't see her sitting through it. She had the dissolving stitches when she had her 1st surgery. They were great!!! I hope your doing a little better. Hang in there it does get easier!!