I had a Tummy Tuck about 4 years ago followed by liposuction 2 years ago (same surgeon). After the liposuction I noticed some sutures poking out from under my skin which were removed via incision. As I've gotten leaner, more and more are starting to poke out. I can't get a straight answer from my surgeon. Is this normal? If so, why was I never told about this as a possible side effect? Or is this due to poor suture placement? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
April 11, 2022
Answer: Suture issues Your abdominoplasty appears to be done very well. The fact that you lost weight and now the permanent sutures are visible/palpable is of some concern. Tightening (plicating) the fascia covering the muscle to tighten the abdomen is an integral part of an abdominoplasty. I usually bury my knots (stitch them to be upside down pointing inwards or suture tissue over them to cover them from the skin). It appears you are correct that your suture ends (knots) are both visible and palpable. The only solution I can think of is to remove them under local anesthesia ('Novocaine') through small incisions. Best wishes. Dr. Taranow
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April 11, 2022
Answer: Suture issues Your abdominoplasty appears to be done very well. The fact that you lost weight and now the permanent sutures are visible/palpable is of some concern. Tightening (plicating) the fascia covering the muscle to tighten the abdomen is an integral part of an abdominoplasty. I usually bury my knots (stitch them to be upside down pointing inwards or suture tissue over them to cover them from the skin). It appears you are correct that your suture ends (knots) are both visible and palpable. The only solution I can think of is to remove them under local anesthesia ('Novocaine') through small incisions. Best wishes. Dr. Taranow
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April 10, 2022
Answer: Tummy Tuck Thank you for your photos and questions. During a tummy tuck numerous different types of suture are used. Based on the amount of time from your tummy tuck, it is most likely permanent sutures were used. I recommend scheduling a consultation with a board certified Plastic Surgeon who can assess you in person but most likely the sutures will need to be removed. Its always best to first go back to the surgeon who did your case as they know exactly what was done. If there are still concerns, get a second opinion. Good luck!
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April 10, 2022
Answer: Tummy Tuck Thank you for your photos and questions. During a tummy tuck numerous different types of suture are used. Based on the amount of time from your tummy tuck, it is most likely permanent sutures were used. I recommend scheduling a consultation with a board certified Plastic Surgeon who can assess you in person but most likely the sutures will need to be removed. Its always best to first go back to the surgeon who did your case as they know exactly what was done. If there are still concerns, get a second opinion. Good luck!
Helpful