Is it possible to do a breast reduction without using any permanent sutures?

Most surgeons do not use permanent sutures for a breast reduction.  The sutures are not necessary for strength after the tissue heals.  Discuss with a board certified plastic surgeon to find an appropriate strategy that works for you. 

Thank you very much for your question.Absolutely, a breast reduction can be done effectively with using only absorbable sutures (that's what I do).  Best of luck!

Often plastic surgeons use dissolving sutures such as Monocryl or PDS inside the breast.Talk to your surgeon about your reactions.

Although there is definitely a role for permanent sutures in surgery, the vast majority of Plastic surgeons do NOT use them in Breast Reduction/Lift because they are NOT necessary and may be associated with local reaction. Most of us use smooth dissolving stitches (such as Monocryl or PDS) which are gone in a few weeks to months as the area heals itself.

A breast reduction is typically closed with all absorbing sutures. This avoids any stitch marks and because there may be 2 or 3 layers of suturing there is support of the closure for 6-8 weeks ( until these sutures absorb )   which helps the overall scar appearance. Also steri strips tapes and eventually silicone tape and /or scar creams can help with the ultimate appearance of the scars.

Dear Kathrynne,I have never used any type of permanent suture during a breast reduction surgery except occasionally for securing the drain, so they can easily be avoided. Often times problems with skin sutures stem from the antibiotic ointment used, skin adhesives, or infection like stitch abscesses so the problems are not always allergy to the suture itself. Regardless of the cause of your problem you should be able to avoid their use during a breast reduction.Good luck,

Thank you for the question. Yes breast reduction surgery is routinely done without the use of permanent sutures. This operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.My best suggestion: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Then, communicate your goals, concerns and goals carefully. Best wishes. 

Yes, I routinely do breast reductions without using permanent sutures. PDS sutures,for example, hold their strength long enough that I consider permanent sutures unnecessary.Good luck with finding a suitable surgeon to carry out your surgery.

I haven't used permanent sutures in breast reduction surgeries in decades, and there is no benefit in doing so. It is the scar tissue formed by your healing that eventually holds things together. 

There's a completely different approach to the operation which requires zero sutures. It is the scarless, liposuction only, reduction.  It is only for a select type of patient. If your major issue is simply going down one or 2 cup sizes and the lift portion of the operation is not the major factor it is incredibly quick safe  and of course no stitches. You'd have to find a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who likes to do this operation and see if it's an option.