What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way? (Photo)

Question

I had saline breast implants and nipple repositioning surgery 6 weeks ago. My stitches are not all dissolving. My skin has become red around the stitches. They already removed a couple sutures. The last one they removed they couldn't find a stitch and they said if it doesn't get better they will need to try to find it so it doesn't cause another infection. I clean them 2 times a day and apply ointment. What causes this? Do I need to take an enzyme supplement? Thanks

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Dissolvable sutures can take up to couple months to dissolve. This will not interfere with anything.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, unfortunately suturing spitting is more common than you would imagine and you are managing well.  I do not think taking an enzyme supplement will help.  Good luck.

Robert D. Wilcox, MD · Answer

Dear Meg6467,
I agree that extrusion of supposedly absorbable sutures does happen more commonly than patients would expect. It may be that there is simply a reaction to the material that is unique to different patients. Certainly, if there is any bacterial colonization on the sutures that would be another reason why it would extrude and form a “suture abscess”. It is important to keep the areas well cleansed and not to use caustic chemicals on the incisions such as Betadine, peroxide, alcohol, etc.

There are no supplements to take for this. It is simply a local healing problem.
I hope this has been of help.
Robert D. Wilcox, M.D.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Just the statistical reasons of averages. Suture dissolution occurs over a range of time. Up to 3 months is not unusual. Best to see your surgeon in person to discuss..//

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

Not everyone dissolves these at the same rate. Average for most sutures is 6 weeks, but where they are knotted, it usually takes longer. Regular follow up with your surgeon is important. Not much else you can do or should do. These will dissolve or be picked out by your surgeon, and will become a dim memory when all is healed.Enjoy your result.All the best.

What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way?

Answer: What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way?

Answer: Dissolving sutures

Answer: Dissolving sutures

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What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way?

Answer: What causes the sutures not to dissolve all the way?

Answer: Dissolving sutures

Answer: Dissolving sutures

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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