If a suture was left in my eye, will it impact my outcome? (Photo)

Question

I had upper & lower bleph one week ago. I had a blue suture sticking out of both sides of my top incision. I trimmed the suture. The doc was able to remove the blue suture on my left eye, but the one on the right seems to be missing. He tried to get it, to no avail. How worried should I be? The right eye is more swollen than the left - is this the reason? I am already worried about the outcome of my surgery, and I’m a pretty high strung person - this lost suture will drive me mad. Help!

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Ir it was a blue suture, that is most likely a prolene suture.  These are very non-reactive, and are frequently used under the skin where they remain forever and don't cause any problems.  Sometimes if there is just a small piece that is just below the skin, it may just come to the surface someday and can be pulled out.  But if it remains under the skin don't worry about it.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Based on your situation I would say you have nothing to worry about. The suture will push itself out of your skin, what you experienced is completely normal and you have nothing to worry about. I would recommend you consult with a Board-certified plastic surgeon.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD · Answer

You will be fine. If the sutures are superficial, your body will push it out and if they are deep, they can stay. There is no reason to worry especially with prolene sutures.

Julia Kerolus, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. This can happen sometimes after a blepharoplasty because the suture that is used is so fine. Generally, this doesn't cause much of a problem and will eventually work its way to the surface and can be pulled out. The swelling on that side is unlikely related to the suture and more likely from asymmetric healing as you recover (which is completely expected). Try not to touch or rub the area. Good luck!

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.Most sutures will push themselves out of the body. This will not interfere with your healing or results. Contact your surgeon if you are concerned or have any questions. Best of luck!

Robert Brueck, MD · Answer

I would not be overly worried.Many times the suture will work it's way out so just be patient.

Darab Hormozi, MD · Answer

In general the suture will be pushed out by your body.  At one point you will notice the tip pocking out and can be pulled out easily.  These suture are neutral and do not produce reactions.  Your vision will be safe and the outcome should not be any different.

If a suture was left in my eye, will it impact my outcome? (Photo)

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