Trimming the hanging (dissolvable) stitches after a open rhinoplasty?

Question

I have some dried blood crust that seems to be attached on my columella 4 weeks after a open rhinoplasty. It does not seem to fall because it is stuck to a stitch hanging on my columella attached to my incision. It really hurts and is very sensitive to try to pull gently or play around with it and the only way seems to get it off would be to trim a bit of the stitch behind this dried crust. Would this be ok? I am really trying to go out in public but can not due to this obvious dry blood crust!

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

My first reaction is: contact your surgeon and they will carefully trim the stitches as necessary.  I usually have my patients clean the dried, crusted blood with a cotton ball or cotton swab soaked with hydrogen peroxide.  This will dissolve the existing blood and clean the area around the stitch.  Then, simply trim or have your surgeon do it.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I think that you need to see your surgeon to allow your surgeon to trim the stitches or remove them. Best of luck.

Daniel G. Becker, MD · Answer

Of course you should call your doctor to get instructions. I use very fine dissolvable stitches to close the columella (skin between the nostrils).  After 1 week I will usually trim them for the patient myself and advise that if they unravel and if there is one hanging they may trim (but not pull!) the stitch.  I have not had a problem with his approach.When I narrow the nostrils this is all done essentially on the inside but the dissolvable stitches are visible from the bottom.  These are somewhat thicker stitches.  I use the same approach but I wait 10 days minimum before trimming. Again though - check with your surgeon! I am sure he or she will be happy to help.

Robert Brobst, MD · Answer

Thank you again for your question. Post operative care recommendations and suture removal should be addressed with your surgeon or his office. This will allow him to see you in case he has concerns about your closure and the healing. Together you can optimize your outcome. Take care.

Trimming the hanging (dissolvable) stitches after a open rhinoplasty?

Answers (4)

Answer: Should I cut my stitches?

Answer: Should I cut my stitches?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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

Trimming the hanging (dissolvable) stitches after a open rhinoplasty?

Answers (4)

Answer: Should I cut my stitches?

Answer: Should I cut my stitches?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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