Are dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches best for earlobe reduction surgery? (Photos)

Question

I have seen two surgeons for ear lob reduction. Both recommend edge excision. One uses removable stitches along the outer edge of the ear. The other uses dissolvable stitches on the front of the lobe itself. Better in front of lobe or edge of the ear? Which will give a better result? Thank you!

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

I now use all absorbable sutures for earlobes. I use these sutures for all earlobe surgery I do. I used to use permanent sutures that needed to be removed by one week, but I have found absorbable (dissolvable) sutures to be just as good, and it avoids my patients having to have sutures removed. I use fast absorbing sutures, that by one week, are usually gone.  Therefore, these small dissolvable sutures don't leave behind any bad scarring either. Suture type is really up to the preference of each individual surgeon, so I wouldn't make your decision on which surgeon based on sutures. Best of luck to you!

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

In general, removal sutures are better for scarring as they cause less inflammation. However, facial incisions due very well with all kinds of sutures due to the inherent vascularity of the face. I would not make the decision on surgeon on dissolvable vs. removable sutures but rather who you feel most comfortable with in terms of rapport and proposed surgical plan.

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. There are many factors that go into suture choice when a surgeon is performing a procedure. Many dissolvable sutures create an inflammtory response which MAY result in poor scarring or even keloid formation. However, dissolvable sutures are often cheaper. Depending on your skin tone and texture, your surgeon may opt for non-dissolvable sutures. Good luck

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question! I use the technique shown in the photos and diagram. The inner layer of sutures are dissolvable. For the outer layer, I prefer a non-dissolvable kind (typically nylon) as these are less likely to leave marks on the skin surface. If a tight closure is achieved internally, and a small gauge suture is used for the surface, the difference is most likely minimal. Best of luck and take care!

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

It is more dependent on the surgical technique than the sutures specifically.  Sometimes, how long the sutures remain in place can be a factor as well.  Best wishes. WirthPlasticSurgery.com

Kristin A. Boehm, MD · Answer

Different surgeons can have different closure techniques following earlobe repair.  This is a case where either option can have an excellent outcome and it is usually a matter of physician preference. As long as your surgeon is experienced in this area, you should do well.  Best of luck.

Olivier Deigni, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and the pictures.
The results of the earlobe reduction typically do not depend on what type of suture is used. What is important is the technique and where the surgeon places the incisions. The placement of the incision will depend on your anatomy and each patient presents with a different set of issues and concerns as well as anatomy. I typically use non-absorbable sutures but that requires my patients to return for suture removal at 7-10 days postoperatively. Some of my patients come from out of town and for them I use absorbable sutures as it is not always possible for them to return to the office within a week's time frame. Each surgeon will use the appropriate sutures based on their technique and also the patient's situation.
Good luck!
Olivier A. Deigni, MD, MPH
Houston Plastic Surgeon

Jonathan Hall, MD · Answer

You should go by the recommendation and experience of your surgeon.  I have always used resorbable sutures for my earlobe repairs, because patients like the convenience of not having to return to have sutures removed, and typically do not come back until the 3 months appointment for re-piercing.  The fast-absorbing sutures tend to be a little more expensive and need to be reinforced with another layer of resorbable sutures in the deeper earlobe.  But both methods work and it is most important to do what works best in the hands of your surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

There is no right answer;  beautiful outcomes can be achieved either way. Ultimately, more important than the type of suture utilized will be careful selection of surgeon.   Experience and attention to detail will be far more important, when it comes to the final aesthetic outcome achieved.   Best wishes.

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

You should follow the advise of the surgeon doing your surgery. I usually use non absorbable prolene sutures. However, under some circumstances e.g. patient preference, I might use absorbable sutures. There is no doubt that good results can be achieved with both approaches.Best wishes

Are dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches best for earlobe reduction surgery? (Photos)

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