Can an individual react to permanent sutures used for muscle repair in a tummy tuck negatively as being a foreign body? (Photo)

Question

The part that concerns me about a tummy tuck is the fact that permanent stitches are used. Is there ever a reason for concern that certain individuals can react to the permanent stitches with auto immunity issues? For example my copper IUD gave me toxic levels of copper over a few years. My amalgam fillings hurt my joints and had heavy metals. My implants caused autoimmune issues. What are the ingredients for permanent stitches and can the body respond by "fighting" the material in the muscle?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I use a combination of permanent and absorbable sutures for the diastasis repair. Other surgeons will have preferences based upon their experience. Trust your board certified plastic surgeon to perform the surgery and oversee your post-operative care.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically the body has no negative reaction to permanent sutures.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon including options for suture material.  Based on your photos you are an excellent candidate for a tummy tuck and should have significant improvement from this surgery.

Steven Sigalove, MD FACS · Answer

It is extremely unlikely that your body will mount an immune response to permanent sutures that are placed during the plication portion of an abdominoplasty. These sutures are synthetic monofilament sutures made from various nylon or polypropylene blends. Typically these sutures are inert and do not react with anything or anyone. When placed in the fascia or muscle, the body will form scar tissue around the surgical site anb typically, that is all. There is always a theoretical risk for allergies to products but this is quite rare.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Sunflowers4Me,
based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. Flanks liposuction would give you a better shape. Allergic reaction to suture material is extremely rare. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Karan Chopra, MD · Answer

These sutures are inert and typically do not generate a response as you are suggesting above. I would discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon to formulate a good plan which may include using absorbable sutures that last long enough for the body to heal over. Something like PDS sutures.

Best of LUCK!

Can an individual react to permanent sutures used for muscle repair in a tummy tuck negatively as being a foreign body? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

Answer: Reaction to Tummy Tuck Suture

Answer: Reaction to Tummy Tuck Suture

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Can an individual react to permanent sutures used for muscle repair in a tummy tuck negatively as being a foreign body? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

Answer: Reaction to Tummy Tuck Suture

Answer: Reaction to Tummy Tuck Suture

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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