Absorbable suture thread is popped out on the temple area

Question

Hi i had facelift 6 weeks ago in other state so i wont be able to visit my surgeon but i was able to speak with him over the phone. I asked him about a white transcendent thread ( feels like a fishing thread) popped out on my temple area, he advised me to just leave it alone. I would like to get 2nd opinions. How long it will take to dissolvable sutures dissolve and is it ikay to leave the poked out suture? Thank you for your valuable opinion.

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Sometimes, dissolvable stitches could "pop" through the skin after a facelift.In my practice, when a dissolvable stitch pops through the skin, unless there is any concomitant infection, I recommend my patients to live it alone. Patients with questions and concern about their facelift recovery ( eg. hoping stitches) should follow up their plastic surgeon's recommendation. Nobody better than the surgeon that performed the operation will give better advice to address that matter.

Mark Karolak, DO, FAOCO · Answer

Whenever there are concerns about healing, it's always best to seen by the surgeon who did the procedure. He or she is going to want to see you. If you are in another state, he or she may be able to coordinate a visit with someone they know who is closer to you for an evaluation, although this would likely be the second best option and may not always be possible. Your surgeon will have the most detailed knowledge of the procedure that was performed.  Start by contacting your surgeon again and discussing your concerns.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

You can usually cut these flush with the skin or with a little tension so it dips under the skin and it should dissolve and not be a problem.

Elizabeth Whitaker, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello umiw,If it is an absorbable skin suture, then you can trim it flush with the skin and it will dissolve over time. However, if it is a deeper suture that is working its way through the skin, then you may want to see someone locally to have it clipped.  Consider sending a picture of the area to your surgeon to advise you further.  I hope that is helpful.All my best!  Dr. Elizabeth
"This answer has been solicited without seeing the patient and should not be construed as medical advice."

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear umiwThank you for your question! I am sorry that you are having an issue with this suture.  Without seeing it / you - its hard to tell what it is and how to manage it.  Perhaps your surgeon could refer you to someone near your home if you are not traveling back to this person.With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Absorbable suture thread is popped out on the temple area

Answers (10)

Answer: Absorbable facelift suture

Answer: Absorbable facelift suture

Answer: Facelift #woundhealing #recovery #downtime #scars

Answer: Facelift #woundhealing #recovery #downtime #scars

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Absorbable suture thread is popped out on the temple area

Answers (10)

Answer: Absorbable facelift suture

Answer: Absorbable facelift suture

Answer: Facelift #woundhealing #recovery #downtime #scars

Answer: Facelift #woundhealing #recovery #downtime #scars

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

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