I'm worried my stitches were taken out too early and I will heal ok? (Photos)

Question

I had my stitches taken out yesterday, day 8. I’ve had a forehead lowering procedure. I didn’t feel like my skin was ready and this is what it looks like after - there’s lots of “holes” and seems open. I like my surgeon very much and not trying to ask behind their back I just feel very sad about the appearance of this and hope it doesn’t heal poorly. If someone could give me a second opinion that would be great.

Ashlin Alexander, MD · Answer

Hi Holly,Thanks very much for your question.  Day 8 is not too early to remove skin sutures.  You don’t want to have them in too long otherwise they can leave track marks in the skin.  Presumably, your surgeon used lots of deep (dissolvable) sutures to help support the incision as it’s healing over the next several months.However, based on the photos, I do believe there is some cause for concern.  On the one side you have shown, there appear to be some issues (either infection, or poor wound healing).  Your best bet is to contact your surgeon straight away and ask for advice.  In the meantime, I would suggest applying copious polysporin ointment to the area to keep it moist.  You may need further wound care there, +/- antibiotics, so I would ask your surgeon what they recommend.  Ultimately, it will heal up great.Hope that helps.  Best of luck!Dr. A

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question of photo! You are very early in your recovery I would give it up until 6 weeks post op to see where you are with those marks.  Best of luck!Dhaval Patel
Double Board Certified 
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago 
Hoffman Estates
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

It is best to contact your surgeon for post surgery issues and care since all doctors have slightly different instructions.A good doctor will definitely like to hear from you, if you have concerns or issues.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

There are deep sutures that stay and are never removed. Some of these dissolve. The stitches on the skin should come our early, so that they would not leave 'tracks' on the skin.  Just be careful with the wound and don't worry. The area on your right side is of concern but from the pictures alone, I can't tell if the wound separated or there is an infection present.Go back and have an examination by your surgeon

I'm worried my stitches were taken out too early and I will heal ok? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Stitches

Answer: Stitches

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I'm worried my stitches were taken out too early and I will heal ok? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Stitches

Answer: Stitches

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Forehead Reduction

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