Suture came clean through back of ear, still connected (Photo)

Question

I had a bilateral Otoplasty 7 months ago. Recently, a permanent suture came clean though my skin. It’s an important top stitch and is still connected. No signs of infection. Other ear has a suture in a similar place that also feels very near the surface. This one is painful if moderate amount of pressure applied. I’ve spoken with my Dr and choice is between 1) leaving until 2yrs have passed and monitor for infection and then remove or 2) snip the suture and risk movement. Is option 1 very risky?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You need to have the suture removed. The fear is that bacteria will get into the suture line, get into the cartilage and you get cartilage infection which would require excision of part of the cartilage which can deform the ear.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Sutures can extrude in 3 to 5% of patients who undergo otoplasty surgery. I believe it would be excessive to leave this alone for 2 years. We have seen suture Extrusion after 6 months, like you have, and removing these stitches have not resulted in a change in ear appearance. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

The suture should be removed since this poses an infection risk. The other one doesn’t need to be removed unless it surfaces.

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