How long for stitches from brachioplasty to dissolve? Specifically, ones under the skin along the suture line. (photo)

How long it takes for sutures to dissolve will depend on which type of suture you surgeon used during your procedure. For example it will take approximately 200 days for PDS to dissolve while only 100 days for monocryl to dissolve. Sutures can commonly "spit" or poke through the surface of the skin creating a sore spot along your scar line. If a suture pokes through and is not easily removed at home, give your surgeons office a call and they can help trim the suture for you. 

Thank you for your question and photos. In this procedure the Plastic Surgeon places many sutures. Some of them will rise to the surface of the incision and try and "spit" out of the wound. Sometimes the sutures used dissolve at 6 weeks, some are designated to dissolve at 6 months. There are times where patients will have sutures spit out even after that. Often you may feel them before you actually see them. Please do not try and remove these at home. Please contact your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and let them know what is going on. They will guide you through the process.

Jeffrey J. Roth, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question about the dissolution time of stitches after a brachioplasty (arm lift). It's important to understand the healing process and how various types of sutures can affect it.
Type of Sutures: The duration for sutures to dissolve varies based on the type used. Surgeons choose sutures based on the specific needs of the surgery and their own preferences.
Absorbable Sutures: These are designed to dissolve over time. Their dissolution rate can vary, with some types dissolving as quickly as two weeks, while others can take 6 to 9 months to fully absorb.
Permanent Sutures: Some surgeons use non-absorbable, permanent sutures. These may either be removed at a later date or left in place permanently, depending on their location and purpose in the surgical repair.
Feeling Under the Skin: It’s also possible that what you're feeling under the skin is not the suture material but scar tissue, which is a normal part of the healing process.
Postoperative Care: At this stage, I recommend continuing with scar management techniques:
Scar Massage: Gently massaging the scar can help to break down scar tissue and improve its appearance and flexibility.
Silicone Treatments: Both silicone cream and silicone gel strips are beneficial for scar care. They can help to flatten and soften the scar.
Patience in Healing: It’s important to be patient with the healing process and follow the postoperative care instructions provided by your surgeon. If there are any concerns or unusual symptoms, consult with your surgeon for advice and reassessment.
Avoid Unnecessary Surgery: Generally, it's best to avoid additional surgery just for suture removal unless there is a specific indication for it, like an infection or significant irritation.
Follow-up with Your Surgeon: Keep in regular contact with your plastic surgeon for follow-ups and guidance on your recovery process.
Your overall healing appears to be going well, which is a positive sign. Thank you for sharing your concerns, and I wish you a smooth and continued recovery.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen