I had a breast reduction almost 5 months ago. Are these spitting sutures normal? (Photo)

It is perfectly normal to have splitting sutures poke out. Call your surgeons office and they can trim them for you. Best wishes!

Spitting sutures are very common. Some sutures can take a year to dissolve. You should contact your surgeon to get into the office to have them removed.

Hello,
And thank you for your question.
Based on your photos, these do appear to be spitting sutures. If they are the dissolving type of sutures ( which your surgeon can let you know), they typically should dissolve on their own within 1 year. Massaging the scars help too.
I suggest that you discuss your questions and concerns with your Plastic Surgeon.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Hello @Brazybee Thank you for your question and showing your pictures. I suggest you talk with your doctor right away. Is important to remember that the characteristics of the scar are associated with what happens as a patient (the healing process, scarring depends on the patient) and what your doctor can do as the healing process goes on. There are many things nowadays to be able to manage a scarring process. Technologies: laser, fixer, in products, substances, compressive attachments. For a breast reduction surgery the healing process takes between 9 to 12 months and in that time you need to be taking care of yourself d evaluated by your doctor regularly. I hope this shed some light. best wishes!

Hi Brazybee,
Your body recognizes stitches as a foreign body, and it will do two things simultaneously--one is create inflammation around the stitches to try and dissolve them, and two is try to kick them out to the surface. The knots, which are a ball of suture material, are occasionally kicked out to the surface before completely dissolving.
I can't tell from the photos, but some surgeons use dermal staples, which are also prone to coming through the skin. I would suggest you see your surgeon for a healing check, and to remove the spitting sutures.
Best,Chris Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane WA

Dear Brazybee,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Some patients are more apt to develop these suture abscesses. They should be addressed by your surgeon. Once the suture material is removed the areas tend to heal fairly quickly with minimal home care.

Hi! Would suggest that you visit your plastic surgeon for a thorough examination for proper advice and further recommendation because it is difficult to identify the issue based on your photos. In case you cannot visit your plastic surgeon then book a consultation with only an experienced plastic surgeon who has an expertise in breast reduction surgeries.