Permanent non dissolving sutures used for platysmaplasty? (Photo)

Question

I believe some surgeons use non-dissolving sutures when righting up the platysma . What are the risk/ pros / cons of using non-dissolving sutures vs dissolving sutures? Why would a surgeon want to use non dissolving sutures?

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Yes, you are right; some surgeons use non-dissolving sutures, while others use dissolving. I am not sure that there is much of the difference once muscle is healed. I am not sure that we know the right answer since it does not make any difference in our experience. Hope this helps.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I use permanent sutures for platysmaplasty. Absorbable sutures would increase the risk that platysma band will recur. The stitches are soft and they wouldn't bother you it be visible

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

All depends on a surgeon's experience. Absorbable can dissolve and muscle can pull apart again. Non absorbable ones can cause a knot sometimes or become visible through skin. 
IMHO non absorbable ones when burried deep work the best.
Regards
Dr. J

Jeffrey K. Scott, MD · Answer

There are several types of sutures which can work well plicating the right and left anterior platysmal bands. I think the most important criteria is that the plication sutures are small diameter (such as 5-0) and of soft material. It is also important to not overly thin out the submental skin flap with excessive liposuction.

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

Although sutures are generally divided into dissolvable vs non dissolvable, this is not as definitive as it seems. Some sutures said to be permanent actually dissolve over several years. The dissolvable ones can disintegrate and lose strength from a few days to many months. The specifics of each suture dictate when it is most useful. You need something that lasts at least 4-6 months or longer when you are holding structures that will pull apart without the suture. This is so when you are putting the platysma muscle together. You need either a "dissolvable" suture that will stay strong at least 6 months or a "permanent" suture to reduce the incidence of recurrence. This is also true of putting the skin together where failure to do so with a buried more "permanent" suture frequently results in a wide scar. There are very little risks of using these sutures and significant benefits.

Permanent non dissolving sutures used for platysmaplasty? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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