Stitch Stuck 5-6 Weeks After Rhinoplasty. How Do I Remove It?

Question

All healed nicely, accept a few days ago I felt something rough under my nostril, after further investigation I discovered its the end of a non dissolvable stitch! I tried tugging on it with tweezers but it feels like its attatched firm to the top of my lip on the inside. How would I get it out? Returning to the surgeon is not an option.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

This suture has become exposed or was intended to be left exposed, but its intended use and its actual composition may not be what it seems.

	You have indicated that you feel this is a permanent "non-dissolvable" suture, likely because most patients feel that dissolving sutures should be "gone" by 5-6 weeks post-op. This would be true for many, but not all sutures. Some suture materials are designed to be in place for several months, while allowing the sutured tissues to heal and "knit-up" securely before the suture support and strength gives way by eventual dissolution. Or, a permanent suture was used, and has become exposed (by picking at it?). Once a permanent suture punctures the skin, it can become bacterially-contaminated, and may well NEED to be removed to avoid problems. How this affects your nose surgery outcome is best for your surgeon to decide. 

	Removing something that was intentionally left in place before it was intended to be removed is another concern, and without knowing your surgeon's technique, methods, and suture choices, it is foolish to try to do this on your own. Since you can't go to see your surgeon, I would at least call and describe EXACTLY what you have discovered, and just how you discovered this. Then, follow your doctor's advice, even if it means another trip to your surgeon, or seeing a trusted colleague locally.

	Remember, the patient who operates on himself has a fool for a patient!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Unfortunately, your only good option is to visit with a rhinoplasty surgeon for examination and stitch removal.

	Best wishes.

Babak Azizzadeh, MD · Answer

You need to find a new surgeon to follow your results as well as help now to get the stick removed.  good luck

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

I'm sorry, but this is definitely a circumstance that belongs in the hands of a professional.  In the United States, many commercials carry the disclaimer, "not recommended for use at home".  This advice definitely applies here.

Mike Majmundar, MD · Answer

The sutures used for rhinoplasty are generally very small so fine instruments would be needed to remove these.  Seeing another plastic surgeon would probably be most advisable. In addition, you need to be followed by someone to make sure you continue to get a good rhinoplasty result.

Stitch Stuck 5-6 Weeks After Rhinoplasty. How Do I Remove It?

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Stitch Stuck 5-6 Weeks After Rhinoplasty. How Do I Remove It?

Answers (10)

Answer: Retained Suture After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Retained Suture After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Stitch left after Rhinoplasty

Answer: Stitch left after Rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.