Thought I'd update and hopefully close out this big ugly chapter of Ira's ordeal.
Just got back from the vet, the stitches are out and he looks great! A few big hisses directed at the vet but he is none the worse for the wear. He held out and didn't shed yet, looks like he will any second now though.
I'm just glad it's all over and everything turned out well...it's quite nerve-racking to have your snake have surgery, anesthesia and four weeks of injections! He, unlike me, was a trooper though it all though...he's a good little snake