This is what I'm concerned about with spitting stitches and the hole (Photo)

Question

I'm adding pics. Treating with packing wound with silver sulf and gauze and 500mg keflex

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs, and I am sorry to see your wound healing difficulties after your tummy tuck.  It appears that you have had a number of suture abscesses develop. These are localized areas of infection, that develop as sutures fail to be absorbed completely and cause irritation to the overlying skin. Because the suture material is acting as the cause of the infection, it should be removed, and depending on the size of the wound, a gauze cover or gauze packing applied.  These typically then go on to heal without difficulty.  Be sure to have close follow up with your surgeon until your healing is complete to insure that no further issues arise.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Because so many sutures are used to close an abdominoplasty incision, it is common for one or more of them to spit.  In general, I advise my patients to shower daily and clean the area with soap and water and then place triple antibiotic ointment and a bandaid over the opening.  Increasing protein in your diet will help heal these up too.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  The best step you could take at this point is going to be seen in person by your operating surgeon.  It appears that you could have an infection, but to prevent the possibility of one in the future, you should schedule an appointment.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Wendell G. Miles, MD · Answer

This is a very manageable problem, and not unheard of with surgical procedures of any kind. I'm partial to silver impregnated alginate dressings to pack such wounds every other day. The dressing changes are easy, and the silver kills all bacteria. Once healed, your surgeon might consider surgical revision of the scar in that location. Continue to follow up closely with your surgeon.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and the pictures. It would appear as though you have suture abscess, a localized infection around the knot of the suture. These are remedied by unroofing the area and removing the affected suture. With local wound care the wound will usually go on to heal, without much impact on the appearance of your scar. I recommend to continue in close follow up with your plastic surgeon, they are in the best position to evaluate and treat you during your post operative recovery. This will allow you and your surgeon the chance to discuss your concerns and help allay any anxieties you may be experiencing.I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Virgil Willard, MD (retired) · Answer

A spitting suture is not uncommon.  We all wish the absorbably suture we all use would go away quicker than they currently do.  Contiue local wound care and things should heal up very well.  a small revision of the wounds can be done if necessary at a later time.  I'm alwys very pleasantly surprised how that is necessary very few times.  Keep intouch with your doctor and things should work out well.   Good luck.

This is what I'm concerned about with spitting stitches and the hole (Photo)

Answers (6)

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