Can Internal Stitches Work Their Way out After a Face Lift?

The simple answer to your questions is "yes"; internal sutures can become inflamed and work their way out after surgery.  This can occur weeks, months, or even years after surgery.  In my experience, this process is more likely to occur when braided sutures are used.  Many Surgeons prefer a longer lasting form of deeper suture, such as a braided Nylon, or a PDS (monofilament) for fixation of the SMAS.  In my experience, this circumstance is most likely to occur when a braided suture is used in a male patient.  The high density of deeper hair follicles in relative proximity to the suture is likely to account for this.  Removal of the offending suture(s) is usually sufficient to solve the problem.

Dear Barty1-

 

Depending on your facelift technique, you may have sutures under your skin, in the area in front of your right ear, as you describe.  These sutures may be absorbable, or may not be, which also affects how quickly they dissolve.  

Generally, treating this type of issue can be done safely in the office, using some local anesthesia, and either removing the suture, re-suturing the right ear area, getting a possible cortisone injection, or a completely different technique, depending on what is going on with your right ear.  

 

Only a physical exam with your plastic surgeon, in person, can fully determine what's going on with your right ear, so I would suggest seeing him/ her as soon as you can.

 

Best Wishes on a Speedy Recovery!

 

Roy Kim, MD