Will this stitch that is sticking out of my right nipple dissolve on its own? (Photos)

Question

26 days post breast lift lollipop/breast augmentation and There’s a stitch sticking out my nipple it won’t go away. Will it dissolve on its own? Surgeon is out of state.

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have sutures come to the surface up to several months after surgery. From your photos, the suture appears to be one that will dssolve. I would call your surgeons office for instructions,however, if that is not feasible, you can safely clip the end, but i would not recommend pullling on it.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

If by the 6th to 7th week the stitch sticking out does not fall off like a scab, a surgeon can trim it away.
Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Ankur Mehta, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for posting photos along with your question. The suture appears clear and typically with this surgery most plastic surgeons would use a dissolvable suture so it is very likely a dissolvable suture. However, I think the best course of action is to send them this picture and ask them what you should do. They may allow you to trim the suture so it is not sticking out like it is. Congrats on your recent surgery and I wish you a speedy recovery!Ankur Mehta MD

Aisha White, MD · Answer

It appears the suture is clear, which typically indicates it will dissolve on its own.  It is best if you check it’s your surgeon to be sure. They may feel comfortable with you trimming the suture shorter so it is less irritating.

Douglas L. Gervais, MD · Answer

Dear Danswoman85, The suture will eventually dissolve but it could take weeks or longer. You should call your surgeon and either 1) Go see them and have them trim it or 2) have them direct you to trim it at home with a clean scissors. Good luck. Dr. Gervais.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, yes the stitches dissolve I would just take a pair of small scissors clean the tip with alcohol and trim it and the rest will dissolve soon. Best wishes.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, call your surgeon and confirm that the suture is absorbable.  There are surgeons who use a permanent stitch around the areola.  Then ask your surgeon to either advise you on how to address it yourself or how to see a doctor in your town to address, good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear danswoman85,this would depend on the type of suture. It would be the best to ask your plastic surgeon which type of sutures did he used. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

I would ask your PS what stitches were used. If it is a dissolvable stitch then this may dissolve of its own accord.

Ziyad Hammoudeh, MD · Answer

This appears to be a dissolvable stitch.  However, I would recommend discussing with your plastic surgeon that performed your surgery.  He/she can advise you on whether to come in for management of this stitch or whether to have you trim at the skin surface yourself.
Ziyad Hammoudeh, MD

Will this stitch that is sticking out of my right nipple dissolve on its own? (Photos)

Answers (13)

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