With all techniques, it is best to use the thinnest suture possible in order to minimize the risk of track marks and foreign-body reactions. This technique was originally described for the trunk and extremities, where a 2-0 nonabsorbable suture was advocated. Unless there is marked tension across the wound, smaller gauge suture material is preferable. Indeed, since the goal of the continuous oblique mattress suture is primarily to encourage wound-edge eversion, fine-gauge suture material may be used on the extremities as well, though if the wound is under significant tension, then 5-0 suture material may be used on the extremities and neck, and thicker suture material, including 3-0, may be used on the trunk if the anticipated tension is marked.