Can ears relapse years after otoplasty due to removal of permanent sutures?

Question

I had my otoplasty surgery about 17 years ago when I was 25. My surgeon used permanent sutures, but on one ear, a piece of the suture resurfaced with a sharp point and was quite bothersome. I just saw an ENT, who snipped a piece that was sticking out. What are the chances of my ear relapsing or changing its position due to the suture having been cut?

Salih Aydin, MD · Answer

Hello. There are two techniques used while performing this surgery. The first is the technique using only stitches. In this case, the ear is fixed backwards with the help of stitches. If this technique is applied, the ear can be opened gradually within a few months when the stitches are removed.
 The second technique is done by removing the ear cartilage. Removing the permanent stitches used in this technique may or may not distort the shape. As a result, the stitches there must be removed. Because now they have come out, you will see whether your ear has opened in time. Stitches coming out of the skin may cause infection over time.

James McMahan, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Most otoplasty procedures involve putting in several permanent sutures. It is unlikely after 17 years that removal of a single suture would result in a relapse.
If, by chance, you did get somewhat of a relapse, it could be corrected with an incisionless procedure under just local anesthesia.

Can ears relapse years after otoplasty due to removal of permanent sutures?

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Can ears relapse years after otoplasty due to removal of permanent sutures?

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