My Absorbable sutures in neck and under ears are not absorbed after 3 months and are causing pain. Advice? (photo)

Different strokes for different folks I say !There are countless ways to technically perform facial tightening procedures, and there are even more ways to use sutures to optimize the final result.  Personally I use 3-0 PDS sutures to plicate or imbricate the deeper facial layers (SMAS), and occasionally  there can be the occasional irritation from one of these sutures.  Additionally, less than 1% of the time these sutures can actually extrude thru the skin, but more often than not, the PDS will gradually dissolve in the 6-9 months following the surgery.  I have used these sutures in the deep tissues since 1986, and I have never had to cut thru the skin to remove one, but never say never.  Go back to your surgeon for an assessment.......

Thanks for the photo.  Sutures can be used in this area to help suspend and reposition the platysma muscle.  If absorbable sutures are used they typically take 6 - 9mths to dissolve.  If there is persistent or irritation over the are then it should be relatively straightforward to remove. It's unlikely another surgeon or GP will remove it for you. Discussing it further with your surgeon is recommended, he may have very valid reasons to leave it alone.  Best wishes

Thank you for your question.  The absorbable sutures can take 9 months to dissolve in some cases.  I would recommend touching base with your plastic surgeon.  Worse case- they can make a small nick and remove the stitch.  All the best.