I Still Have Stitches from an Otoplasty Left in After Almost 13 Years, Would It Be Wise to Get Them Removed?

These are permanent sutures and do not need to be removed unless there is a problem. If they are causing issues, they can safely be removed.

The sutures are typically left in to maintain the shape of the ear. However, given that you're experiencing frequent infections an argument could be made to remove the offending sutures. The risk that needs to be balanced is that removal of one or more sutures could allow the upper part of your ear to re-protrude. Unfortunately if that occurs and it troubles you revision surgery would be the only option for re-shaping the ear. I hope this information is helpful.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Permanent sutures are often used to hold the reshaped cartilage when an otoplasty is performed.  They can erode through the skin and become infected years after the surgery.

They can be easily and safely removed at this point.  Removal will clear up the infections and will not affect the shape of the ear this long after surgery.