Removed TT drain and now a stitch is stick inside, what do I do?

Question

I just removed my TT drains first one came out great. 2nd one drain had a stitch (black one not clear ones) that is stuck in my body I pulled and pulled but nothing, now since I pulled so much it’s shorter and deep in the hole, I’m thinking of using a razor blade to cut myself open to remove it - what other options do I have? My doctor is out of state

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI sparkle, You need to see your PS to have him/her remove the sutures. You should not be removing your own sutures.Best,Dr. Christine Rodgers

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

I would have to agree with the previous Plastic Surgeon on out of state surgery.  While many of us offer surgery to patients out of town, we also try and arrange for drain removal, etc so that this does not happen.  I'm actually very surprised that your surgeon asked you to remove your own drains.  With that being said, if you now have a retained suture I suggest that you meet with a Plastic Surgeon in your area but also be prepared for them to charge you for their services since they are effectively taking care of another surgeon's postoperative care.  You could also see the Plastic Surgeon who actually performed your surgery since this really should be their responsibility since they did your surgery.I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,Gregory A Buford MD FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Ryan Hoffman, MD · Answer

Whether you doctor is out of state or not, they performed the surgery and they are responsible for getting you through the post operative issues. Contact their office and listen to their suggestions. At worst, you may have to go and visit your surgeon to remove the stitch. Something to take in consideration when planning surgeries with surgeons who are not close to you. In the long run a retained suture is not an emergency and would likely work itself to the surface.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, do not use any blades for this, I recommend you see a doctor near you to get it removed.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear SparkleMN,I would not suggest you to try to use razor in order to remove the drain. It would be best to find a board-certified plastic surgeon near you or go to the ER so they can check it and remove the drain properly. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Removed TT drain and now a stitch is stick inside, what do I do?

Answers (8)

Answer: Drain stitch

Answer: Drain stitch

Answer: Drain removal

Answer: Drain removal

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Removed TT drain and now a stitch is stick inside, what do I do?

Answers (8)

Answer: Drain stitch

Answer: Drain stitch

Answer: Drain removal

Answer: Drain removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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