Piece of Thread from Stitches Left After Rhinoplasty

Question

I had the stitches removed two days ago and I am afraid the doctor left a piece of thread inside the scar tissue. On the scar there is a little see-through black/blue dot; exactly where there was a suture point. What could happen if he left a piece of thread inside? They were not self-dissolvable stitches.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

The suture remnant that you describe is most likely a non-absorbable suture. If left alone this suture will probably work its way to the surface and can be easily removed. Unfortunately foreign material does have the potential to become infected. For these reasons, we generally recommend that these suture remnants be removed as soon as possible following surgery.

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for your question.
It is possible that there was a stitch left behind. See your plastic surgeon, and he will be able to tell you if it is a stitch or something else. It will most likely not do any harm, but any time there is a foreign object left in the body, there could be a chance of infection. It is best to check with your surgeon to be safe.
Best regards.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

See your surgeon and he can tell you if it is there or just a blood crust. It will do no harm until it is removed.

C. Spencer Cochran, MD · Answer

Make an appointment to see your surgeon. It is possible that there is a small piece of suture buried in the skin. This is easily removed in the office. Most likely the suture will work its way out on its own, but any foreign body can potentially become infected over time if left in place.

Patrick J. Byrne, MD, FACS · Answer

These stitches rarely cause any harm whatsoever. When you get a chance, go back to the surgeon for him/her to remove. If you dont, it will likely work its way out on its own.

Piece of Thread from Stitches Left After Rhinoplasty

Answers (5)