What is a “lose stitch”? (photos)

Question

My surgery was on June 24 2021, I had a tummy tuck/muscle repair; a month after one of the drain sites re opened and drained for a week,he prescribed antibiotics. 7 months later I am still very swollen, around the incision under the belly button and on my part. It was rock hard/painful 2 days ago, I called him and he said to go see him today and prescribed antibiotics,went today to see him,he said it’s a “lose stitch”, and that he will re open that area, about 6 in to get the stitch out

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. It is very possible that all this is caused by a suture that did not get absorbed. Opening the area up, as your surgeon proposed, will verify and treat this. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Double board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon, Houston. TX.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Sometimes a portion of a stitch does not dissolve and creates a small abscess.  It can cause redness, minor swelling in the direct area, and minor discomfort.  Once the suture material is removed the area tends to heal well with minimal home care.

Hagen Schumacher, PhD, FRCS(Plast), FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your enquiry. The photographic information is very helpful.
Surgeons use basically two types of sutures: dissolving and non-dissolving stitches. Dissolving sutures eventually disappear and unless they are causing major problems, they can be left alone. Long-standing problems from non-dissolving sutures often require removal.
I would suggest to confirm this with your surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear xmbishopx,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gilbert Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photos. I agree that it looks like its a stitch that is infected and it needs to be removed. It is best to go to the surgeon who performed your case as they know exactly what your procedure entailed and can help navigate your recovery.

What is a “lose stitch”? (photos)

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What is a “lose stitch”? (photos)

Answers (7)

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