Is It Normal to Have Internal Stitches Push out of the Skin? (photo)

Question

I am 3 weeks post op and just noticed some of my internal stitches are pushing there way out. I pulled one out thinking it was dry skin ( that is where the red dot is) beside it is the other stitches that is pushing out of my skin. All of my external stitches have been taken out at 2 weeks post op. Is this normal?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Dissolvable stitches sometimes works their way through the incision before they completely dissolve. This is called "spitting" and is fairly common. They will have no long-term effect on the outcome.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

is not 'normal' but it does happen.  Usually they are self-limiting problems but you should inform your surgeon so the sutures can be removed if several are showing themselves.

Val Lambros, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

What you describe is very common. Not to worry. It's a nuisance not a problem. See you doctor.

Is It Normal to Have Internal Stitches Push out of the Skin? (photo)

Answers (3)