How Long Can It Take for Sutures to Dissolve After Rhinoplasty?

Question

It has been 18 days after my surgery and I can still see the stitches in my nose and right breast. How long will it take for them to dissolve?

David E. Kim, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty sutures will depend on what type of sutures were used. Usually these sutures will dissolve within a week or two and fall out on their own.

Mohsen Tavoussi, MD, DO · Answer

It depends on the type of sutures used. Usuallly, it will take anywhere from 4-6 weeks for these sutures to resolve. These sutures are usually inside the nose and occasionally there are sutures on the outside after open rhinoplasty, which should be removed after 7 days.

Mark Preston, MD · Answer

If you are still seeing sutures at 18 days post op I recommend that you return to you surgeon for removal of any visible suture remnants.

Joseph Campanelli, MD · Answer

This is definitely something that you need to see your surgeon about right away.  The stitches in the nose are more of a nuisance, but the ones in the breast can lead to permanent scarring in the skin.

Andrew B. Denton, MD · Answer

The effective strength of bioabsorbable sutures used during rhinoplasty is about 7 sevens.  That being said, some suture remnants may remain for 2 to 3 weeks especially closer to the edge of the nostril where they may dry out.  If you are able to visit your surgeon, he or she would be able to remove them painlessly in a matter of minutes.

How Long Can It Take for Sutures to Dissolve After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Retained Stitches

Answer: Retained Stitches

Answer: Sutures dissolving after rhinoplasty

Answer: Sutures dissolving after rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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How Long Can It Take for Sutures to Dissolve After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Retained Stitches

Answer: Retained Stitches

Answer: Sutures dissolving after rhinoplasty

Answer: Sutures dissolving after rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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