Is 6 weeks too long to have non dissolvable stitches in? I had a tummy tuck 16 days ago.

It is best to have non-dissolvable sutures removed within about 14 days, with 7 days or less being ideal to minimize scarring.  Sometimes that is not possible if there is a high chance of the incision separating due to healing issues or a particularly difficult location.  This is best addressed by discussing the issue with your plastic surgeon.  Should the sutures need to be left in longer and you end up with a less than ideal scar, a scar revision may be needed.

Thank you for sharing your question.  It is unusual to have non-dissolving sutures in place for that length of a period of time as the chance of excess scarring is high.  I would reach out to your surgeon to confirm that this is the recommended amount of follow-up time required so as to get the best information and ensure your results.

If the suture is coming through the surface of the skin, it’ll leave “train track” marks by about 10-14 days. If it is hidden totally under the surface, it probably won’t cause a problem, but that sounds unusual. I usually see my patients a week after their last drain is pulled to make sure no fluid is accumulating. Maybe you can schedule another follow up soon and ask about future removal then.

It is best to ask your plastic surgeon about this but in my own practice I cannot think of an example wherein non-resorbable sutures are left in place for that long. This would indeed be a risk factor for a poor final scar with visible suture marks. If you are concerned about the recommendation given to you and you are not satisfied with the response after questioning your surgeon, you might want to consider a second opinion. Best of luck to you. 

Dear jnicole0601,Thank you for your question.  Typically 6 weeks to leave non-absorbalble sutures in place is too long.  Perhaps you could call the office and review your situation and ask if the doctor meant to leave the stitiches in for that lenght of time.  Hope this helps & good luckJames Sheridan, MD

hi.
6 weeks is too long for any stitches on the skin surface. do get them removed as soon as you can.
best wishes