7 years post-op: Tonight I found 1.5cm of 'fishing line' coming out of my breast. What do I do?

Question

I had a breast reduction 7 years ago. I just found about 1.5cms of what looks like fishing line coming out of the edge of my areola. Ummm...now what please? All the other posts I have read have been about stitches appearing reasonably close (in time) to the operation. This is 7 years. And, could it be making me sick?

Kim Taylor, FRACS · Answer

Hi - what a shock that must have been for you.It is likely that your surgeon used a permanent suture around your areola that has now decided it wants out!  It is most likely nylon & is very inert thus wouldn't be causing any issues to your body.  As long as your breasts aren't red, hot or swollen then you should try to make an appointment this week with your surgeon (or another locally) to have the suture trimmed or removed.All the best

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Understandably you were alarmed to see some “fishing line” after all this time.  Its probably just some of the permanent sutures which has decided to work its way out.  It shouldn’t be causing you to be unwell.  Simply trim it at the base close to your skin (carefully) and keep doing this until it resolves.  It may cause a small irritation but it shouldn’t be any cause for concern.

Praful Ramineni, MD · Answer

It is very likely a permanent suture placed at the time of your initial surgery to avoid the areola from widening.  It won't make you sick and can usually be removed fairly easily at your plastic surgeons office.

7 years post-op: Tonight I found 1.5cm of 'fishing line' coming out of my breast. What do I do?

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7 years post-op: Tonight I found 1.5cm of 'fishing line' coming out of my breast. What do I do?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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