Should I be worried about a suture extrusion area getting infected or should I leave it as is?

Question

i had otoplasty 2 years back . now I have noticed suture break through th skin. should i b worried whether the area might get infected or should i leave it as it is.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If the suture is extruded and exposed it needs to be removed . Very simple to do. This is not at all uncommon for us to see

Salih Aydin, MD · Answer

Hello, non-melting permanent sutures are generally used in ear surgeries. These stitches can come out of the skin over the years. If it is out of the skin, it makes sense to take it. because over time, the infection of these sutures is almost 100%. Even if not within a few months, an infection will develop around this stitch. Therefore, I recommend removing these stitches at a comfortable time instead of compressing them at a critical time.

Akshay Sanan, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Cassig,
I would recommended you reach out to the surgeon who performed your otoplasty before you try removing the suture on your own. I hope this helps answer your question.
All the best,Dr. Sanan, MDAkshay Sanan MD Facial Plastic SurgeryLos Angeles, CA

Should I be worried about a suture extrusion area getting infected or should I leave it as is?

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