Stitches left in after lip lift procedure - what to do?

Question

I have had my lift-lip and whilst i am happy with my healing . I am 4 weeks post- op, there was some stitches left in the area. Some were removed by surgeon but not all so I manually had to cut them out. there is one stitch that it is too short to get out but its just prickly when I touch it with my finger. My question is will it dissolve or will I have to get it out somehow. ( as it is its difficult). My surgeon is in another country so I cannot go back to him.

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

Stitches left in the incision may be problematic to healing. 
In your situation, I believe you should consult a nearby surgeon to remove the extra stitch. It may cost more money, but your final look will be better because of it.

Gary Linkov, MD
Lip Specialist
Manhattan

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question.Leaving sutures leaves complications such as: skin infection, skin irritation from sutures and running trem lines.It is important to consult with your surgeon to ensure they can look at this and remove any remain sutures. I would suggest seeking a certified board plastic surgeon as they will understand how to remove these as they are familiar with facial procedures and healing amongst sutures following cosmetic surgery.Good luck!

Marc Pacifico, MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Many thanks for posting your question. The problem is that if you still have stitches in 4-weeks after your lip lift, there is a risk of an impact on the final scar appearance. They might leave "cross hatchings" from where they have been.My suggestion would be to find a plastic surgeon near you and see if you can arrange an appointment asap to have them removed. in addition, they would be able to give you advice on how to achieve the best scar possible.Good luck taking things forwards

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Unfortunately without knowing the type of sutures used it is impossible to know if they will dissolve or not.  It would be best to contact your surgeons office to get the best advice. Hope this helps.

Lindsay Sturm, DO · Answer

Great question, thank you!  Often times the sutures that are placed dissolve on their own (typically within a few weeks to a month after your surgery).  Yet without knowing exactly what occured during your surgery it would be very difficult to determine what type of suture was used and even if it is dissolvable.  I would recommend finding a provider in your area that would be willing to see you.  Best wishes, Dr. Lindsay J Sturm

Stitches left in after lip lift procedure - what to do?

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