Non-dissolving sutures used internally for upper bleph?

Question

External stitches removed 5 days post. Dr. also used non-dissolving stitches internally. At the end of the row, there's a large knot under the skin, and a loop of stitch poking out. Is it common to use non-dissolving stitches internally? Won't they always leave a ridge as they never go away? Can the knot area be opened up and fixed so that it is cosmetically more elegant? I am especially concerned about there being non-dissolving sutures internally immediately under the skin.

Brian Maloney, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, there are many ways to close the upper eyelid incision, depending on the eyelid issues being addressed. Since you have a loop of suture sticking out, I would follow up with your surgeon and have them look at the incision.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Occasionally sutures and the knots used to tie these sutures become visible or even inflamed.  The sutures can spit.  These issues can make it necessary to remove the suture.  Generally this requires a minor procedure done in an office setting.  In some cases, removal of a suture is best done in an operating room.  See your surgeon and bring your concerns to their attention.  Exposed sutures like this generally need to be removed.

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

Closure techniques vary among surgeons, however what you describe is not typical.  I routinely use permanent suture material to close my upper blepharoplasty incisions, however this is removed in a "pull-out" manner after one week. After this time there is no more suture left behind in the patient.    It sounds like your surgeon simply missed one of the small sutures of the time your sutures were removed.  The suture that you are feeling can be easily removed in the office if you follow up with your surgeon. I recommend you contact your surgeon and let them know the situation.

Richard O. Gregory, MD · Answer

There are many acceptable methods for closing blepharoplasty incisions, some including non-dissolving stitches. Because of the thinness of the eyelid tissue any foreign body that is retained is likely to be apparent if too shallow. Although it is possibly scar tissue it may be that there is a retained suture fragment which can easily be removed, possibly using local anesthesia. You should return to your surgeon to have this resolved.

George S. Miguel, DO · Answer

Agreed, the only reason I ever use non-absorbing sutures is for an Asian eyelid where you are creating that westernized upper eyelid crease or correcting of ptosis (aka droopy eyelid). ask your PS if they made a decision to correct a droopy eyelid? Hope this helps - Dr. Miguel

Non-dissolving sutures used internally for upper bleph?

Answers (6)

Answer: Eyelid stitches-non-dissolving

Answer: Eyelid stitches-non-dissolving

Answer: Nonabsorable sutures

Answer: Nonabsorable sutures

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Non-dissolving sutures used internally for upper bleph?

Answers (6)

Answer: Eyelid stitches-non-dissolving

Answer: Eyelid stitches-non-dissolving

Answer: Nonabsorable sutures

Answer: Nonabsorable sutures

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.