What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Question

All stiches removed except one. It seems to be 'stuck'. Office assistants left it behind because when they tried to remove it, it was stuck and rippled my nipple. Will it work it's way to the surface without becoming infected?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

hello dcbovieYou should visit or contact your PS about this concern, he would tell you what best to do to the stitches. #infection #rippling

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If the sutures are absorbable they can remain in place until they are easier to remove.  I would recommend visiting your surgeon to have the remaining stitch removed however so it doesn't start to cause irritation.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Absorbable sutures can remain unless causing irritation or a source of infection. Over a period of time, the one stitch might work its way to the top and then can be removed easily. Otherwise, consult with your PS.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

If your stitch is absorbable, if can be left until it fully dissolves.  If it rises to the surface and causes irritation, the stitch can be removed before then. Have your plastic surgeon check it and remove it if it is causing any problem.  Best wishes.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If it is a dissolvable stich, it will slowly go away. If it is not, please ask your surgeon to remove it. Giving it a little more time before being removed should not be an issue.

What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Answers (6)

Answer: What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Answer: What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Answer: Sutures

Answer: Sutures

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What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Answers (6)

Answer: What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Answer: What happens to stitch left behind? I had explant/lift 5 weeks ago.

Answer: Sutures

Answer: Sutures

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.