I still have stitches that hasn’t been removed for 2 years and was wondering if I could remove them at home (Photo)

Dear michymes,
I wouldn't recommend you to try to take sutures out at home. You can visit your surgeon and get them removed within a few minutes.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello Michymes,

Thank you for reaching out with your concern about stitches that have not been removed for over two years and your consideration of removing them at home. It's essential to approach this with caution, and I appreciate your seeking guidance.

Given your situation, where these sutures have remained in place for such an extended period, it's highly likely that they are permanent sutures. These types of sutures are designed to stay within the tissue for a long duration and often span a significant length, making self-removal quite challenging and potentially risky.

I strongly advise against attempting to remove these sutures at home. DIY removal could lead to incomplete extraction or, worse, cause complications such as infection or damage to the surrounding tissue. Given the complexity and the risk of complications, professional medical intervention is crucial.

The ideal course of action is to schedule an appointment with the plastic surgeon who performed your initial procedure. They will have the best understanding of the specifics of your surgery and the nature of the sutures used. If revisiting your original surgeon is not an option, I recommend seeking a consultation with another qualified plastic surgeon. A professional will have the expertise and tools necessary to safely and effectively remove the sutures, ensuring proper healing and minimizing the risk of complications.

In summary, professional removal of long-standing sutures is essential to avoid potential complications. Please prioritize scheduling an appointment with your plastic surgeon to address this matter appropriately.

I hope this information reassures you about the importance of professional care in this situation. Wishing you a smooth and safe resolution.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

I would suggest letting a nurse of surgeon remove those for you since they appear to be internal ones that are peeking out and are probably permanent.