Ethibond purse string suture still present after explant due to staph coagulase-negative. Should it be removed? (Photos)

Question

I had breast implants placed above the muscle with a purse string lift in 2012. No issues until 2017 I had bra area liposuction and I developed a bilateral rash over both areola’s. I had MRI, CT, Mamm, ultrasound, breast biopsy, labs all come back normal. Removed implants two months ago and they did find staph coag neg. I took clindamycin a third time. I’m concerned that the Ethibond 2.0 suture that could be carrying staph. Rash still present and the symptoms have not improved.

Benjamin J. Cousins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your post. Permanent sutures like ethibond can be a source of long term infection and should be removed if that is the case. Be sure to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for a full and thorough review of your surgeries and to discuss a treatment plan.Benjamin J. Cousins MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Miami, FL

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the problems you have experienced. Keep in mind that nothing replaces careful history and physical examination (in person evaluation) when it comes to providing patients with clinical advice.  However, your history and description is concerning;  based on this information I would likely recommend that you remove any suture that is potentially problematic.  Ethibond suture can certainly be problematic ( in the breasts or abdomen…). Best wishes.

Ethibond purse string suture still present after explant due to staph coagulase-negative. Should it be removed? (Photos)

Answers (2)