What is the difference between different coloured stitches in septorhinoplasty? Did a stitch come out that shouldn't have?

Question

I had revision septorhinoplasty a month ago. My clear-ish dissolvable stitches have been coming out, which I know is totally normal (I actually spit on me out this morning - so odd!). Anyways, they've all been the same colour/texture. But then today this green stitch that's very wire-like came out. Would this be a dissolvable stitch too? Is it possible a stitch that is supposed to be permanent came out?

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

There are various dissolvable colored sutures. They come out intermittently as the sutures dissolves a bit. This looks normal. If concerned talk to your surgeon.

Mohsen Tavoussi, MD, DO · Answer

Most color stitches are permenant. Some are absorbable but usually loose color after several weeks. Regardless of the type, you should see your surgeon as schedulled for post operative exams.

Michael J. Rodriguez, MD, FAACS -Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. Most colored sutures are permanent. Some colored sutures may be dissolvable, but typically lose color with time. You should schedule a follow up with your surgeon and show him/her these photos just to be sure that all is well. Best of luck!

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear 10yearsinthemaking,

Thank you for your clinical post and
interesting photos.  In general, the
clear or lighter coloured sutures are dissolvable and they will often be
dissolved completely or come out at the appropriate time in your post-operative
phase and rarely do they compromise contour, shape or form as they are used to
close lining incisions.  Coloured sutures
most commonly are non-absorbable or nylon in nature, although some dissolvable
sutures have colour, as well.  The colour
of these dissolvable sutures tend to dissipate with time.

It is unlikely this single small
suture will compromise support, shape or contour but a visit with your
operative rhinoplasty plastic surgeon is critical to make sure that there is no
cause for concern.

I’m sure you’ll have an excellent
result and best of luck.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

What is the difference between different coloured stitches in septorhinoplasty? Did a stitch come out that shouldn't have?

Answers (4)

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