Are These Areas of Spit Sutures? (photo)

Question

I am 5 weeks post op after having Breast Reduction/Lift and Impants OUT WITHOUT REPLACEMENT. I realize that's unusual but I didn't want any more upkeep. So, just after 4 weeks I noticed discharge, yellowish with darker red that lasted for about 4 days and is gone now. I assume I'm spitting stitches. Is this what that looks like? The photo shows the infra-mammary crease. Thanks.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Some sutures will spit in certain individuals after any surgery.  Without any signs of infection, these sutures can be trimmed or removed for comfort.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Your assessment appears to be spot on. But better to have a PS see the areas in person to determine the exact diagnosis.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures.

	Yes, it is most likely that you are dealing with superficial suture related discharge. These issues usually resolve spontaneously and/or with the help of your plastic surgeon (trimming the involved sutures).

	 Best wishes; hopefully you'll be very pleased with the long-term outcome of the procedure performed.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Hello,

	Thank you for the question and photos.  Yes, it is most likely that the areas that you have presented in the photos are related to suture material.  At 5 weeks after surgery, small openings at the incision line is almost certainly related the suture material.  

	All the best,

	Dr Remus Repta

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It certainly sounds like form your description that it was spitting sutures. Your pictures suggest this, if you have repeated drainage it is wise to see your surgeon.

Are These Areas of Spit Sutures? (photo)

Answers (8)