What is a “lose stitch”? (photos)

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

If you don’t understand what your doctor said and you should contact your doctor and ask them to explain it in simple terms to you.

Personally I think you have a stitch abscess which is not uncommon and typically take care of themselves sometimes with the help of anabiotic‘s.

Since I didn’t do your procedure I don’t know what kind of stitches were used and can’t really help you much.

I would encourage you to watch your weight in order to get the flattest abdomen after this procedure which appears to be well done.

I recommend you follow up with your provider as he recommended.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Hi and welcome to our forum!
During the tummy tuck procedure, the deep muscular layer is usually closed with a permanent suture (does not dissolve). Soft tissues are repaired (usually with a dissolving suture), and the skin closure is accomplished by various surgeons in various ways.
The permanent sutures may become infected (as they are foreign bodies) and may form an inflamed area overlying the offending suture and may develop into a tract leading to the skin surface.
Treatment consists of removal of the offending suture.
Best wishes...