Can permanent sutures used with facelift be removed? (photos)

Question

1+ year after a skin lift (redo) I have scars/mal-positioned earlobes. Revision is no option given lack of skin. But a long permanent suture is poking through the skin at the back of one ear. The skin is inflamed, and it seems the suture must come out. But how can the skin be opened + closed to remove the suture with the already present skin tension, without creating worse tension/scarring? (Med. records have been refused, and no response to questions about the location of the permanent sutures)

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

It looks as though the suture should be removed. He clearly is creating irritation. I personally think these permanent sutures should not be used in a facelift as I find them ineffectual and they can create long-term problems.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about facelift.  Keep in mind, a thread lift is not a facelift.Yes, it is possible but sometimes difficult to remove the sutures that were used for a thread lift.  To be sure, see two or more experienced, board-certified Plastic Surgeons for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have surgery.I hope this helps.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

After 1 year, the scar tissue formed underneath the skin is holding the skin in the lifted position.  If you are having sutures come through the skin, they should be removed.  Over the year of healing after a facelft, you skin has slightly stretched.  For this reason, there should not be any excess tension on the skin after removing the suture. I hope this helps.

Gary Motykie, MD · Answer

The exposed permanent suture need to be removed in order to allow healing in the area that is currently inflamed. At one year, the underlying tissues have most likely healed and the suture removal should have little effect on the present skin tension. A revision will possibly be able to improve your scarring and mal-positioned earlobes.

Jeffrey Marvel, MD · Answer

Removing the suture can be performed in the office provided it is not a "thread lift" suture.  These have multiple barbs that prevent easy removal.  You have a legal right to your medical records.  Contact the office again and tell them your problem.  They should not be brushing you off.

Can permanent sutures used with facelift be removed? (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Removal of internal facelift sutures

Answer: Removal of internal facelift sutures

Answer: Extruded suture

Answer: Extruded suture

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Can permanent sutures used with facelift be removed? (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Removal of internal facelift sutures

Answer: Removal of internal facelift sutures

Answer: Extruded suture

Answer: Extruded suture

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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.