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.

Paul M. Parker, MD, FACS · Answer

Let your surgeon know that the stitch is present. They should know if it a dissolvable stitch or not and whether or not they want to remove it.

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

Answers (5)