Can I trim a sharp stitch at the end of my breast incision?

Question

I'm 3 weeks post op and under my right breast I have an extremely sharp and short stitch which is digging into the underside of my breast. I don't have an appointment with my surgeon until 5 weeks time and so am considering trimming it close to the skin. My concern is that it is likely to withdraw under the skin once cut and I'm worried that if it doesn't dissolve it will be difficult for the surgeon to get to it if I cut it any shorter. Please advise. It's currently really painful.

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear miss mum, I would check with your surgeon before trimming anything. When a patient has an issue like your's, we sometimes allow them to trim it themselves but always prefer that they check with us first. Good luck!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your surgery!  I would recommend making an earlier appointment to see your plastic surgeon and have them evaluate the stitch for removal.  This would be the most conservative and safest course of action.  I hope this helps.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent surgery. Please follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon for an in-person evaluation. I would not suggest trimming any of the sutures yourself. Hope this helps and good luck with your recovery.

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Call your plastic surgeon and I am sure they will have you come in sooner. I would advise you to not trim it on your own. Good luck.

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It would be helpful to provide a photo. It sounds like the suture is a absorbable monofilament. This can be easily trimmed as you thought. I would highly doubt that it is a permanent suture. Best of luck.

Can I trim a sharp stitch at the end of my breast incision?

Answers (5)