What happens if sutures aren't removed with spit stitch wounds? One month post op breast lift with implant.

Question

When my surgical tape was removed, a scar opened up. I was told it was a spitting stitch, and was put on a wet to dry saline rinse. The wound is now over 8 times the original size. I had dissolvable sutures, but is it possible it's getting bigger because the sutures my body was spitting were never removed? I'm a healthy non-smoker.

John Nguyen, MD, FACS · Answer

Sutures do sometimes "spit" after surgery (even dissolvable sutures).  I do not believe it has anything to do with suture removal.  The dressing changes should help the wound heal over time.  This may take some time depending on the wound size.  Good luck and be safe.Respectfully, John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICSDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonAmerican Board of Plastic SurgeryAmerican Board of Surgery

Nathan W. Patterson, MD, FACS · Answer

Removing the suture is in this situation would probably not make much difference.  Wound care is the most important thing right now and it sounds like you are getting that.  Unfortunately, this situation usually takes several weeks to resolve.  Sometimes patients need to have a scar revision once things have healed and the scar has softened.  Best of luck.  Please try to be patient.

What happens if sutures aren't removed with spit stitch wounds? One month post op breast lift with implant.

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