Is it common and or dangerous to remove internal stitches of a tummy tuck preformed 7 years ago?

Question

Full tummy tuck 7 years ago done with polypropylene internal stitches. I can feel and see the knots through my skin. Very irritating and uncomfortable. Already had to have one knot removed because it caused a foreign body to form around it. I would like to have them all removed in the future. I am SCARED. I have always regretted my TT, I am thin young and healthy but constantly ache and am very aware of the stitches everyday. I can feel pulling and aching. Please help.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

After a couple of months the internal repair should be healed enough to hold together without the sutures. However removing them may require almost re-doing the tummy tuck in order to do that. If the most bothersome ones are only in the lower abdomen, then it would be like a mini tummy tuck.

Robert J. Spies, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for putting this question on RealSelf.com.It is unfortunate that you are having this problem.  It is an uncommon problem but not to be unexpected using that type of suture material in a thin person.I would have to agree with other physicians who answered your question to only have individual stitches removed that are the most bothersome.  I do believe it would be quite an undertaking to have to remove all of the stitches and completely re-do the tummy tuck.This is one of the reasons that I do not use that type of stitch.  Other softer and just as permanent stitches do exist.  Hope this helps you.Dr Spies

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Sorry to hear the sutures are causing so much discomfort years after your tummy tuck. I suggest only removing the ones causing the discomfort. Re-opening the entire incision will result in more pain. Please see a board certified plastic surgeon for an in-person examination. Hope this helps and good luck!

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your pain and discomfort. I think that you would cause yourself more pain and discomfort thought trying to remove all the sutures. In my opinion, I would recommend only removing the stitch or suture that is irritating. Best wishes.

Shaun Parson, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question. It is safe and very easy to remove your sutures as this point. Unfortunately it means you will need a surgery but the scar tissue is the strength holding things together at this point, not the sutures.

Ali Mosharrafa, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your discomfort, as this is very unusual.  I would suggest you only remove the sutures that are most bothersome.  That is a routine procedure in most cases.  Hope this helps.Dr. Ali Mosharrafa

Is it common and or dangerous to remove internal stitches of a tummy tuck preformed 7 years ago?

Answers (6)

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