Upper Eyelid Surgery 2 Weeks Ago, Supposed to Have Dissolvable Stitches But Doctor Hasn't Taken Them Out? (photo)

Question

Had upper eyelid surgery 2 weeks ago. Supposed to have dissolvable stitches, which still remain, plus eyelids are still swollen. Saw the doctor at one week, and he refused to remove the stitches. Is this normal, am starting to question my doctor's work. Am scared these stitches which won't dissolve will leave a permanent scar.

Gregory Sexton, MD · Answer

This is a discussion you need to have with your surgeon. If the stitches are under the skin it is not a concern. If it is a running baseball type stitch, then I would want to remove it.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

At this time, if the stitches are in fact dissolvable but are still present, I think you could help them dissolve by spending some more time in the shower or washing your face. The wetness will help them come out more quickly. Very gently wipe over the area as well. Typically dissolvable sutures should dissolve in a week to 10 days.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Absorbable sutures to not always dissolve on schedule.  This is true if they are not kept moist.  Occasionally a chromic suture will be used instead of a fast absorbing suture.  These don't break down and definitely need to be removed.  I would call your surgeon and let them know that they need to be removed.  Don't wait until you next scheduled visit.

Mitesh Kapadia, MD, PhD · Answer

I would recommend compresses with a warm washcloth several times a day to help the sutures dissolve more quickly. Definitely speak to your surgeon and let him/her know about your concerns.

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the photo.  It looks as though you are a little swollen, (normal), and the sutures are in the correct place.  Each surgeon will manage their sutures differently.  Some place absorbable sutures in the skin.  These will disintegrate and fall off on their own.  You are still very early in the post operative course.  Please do let your surgeon know your concerns.  He was there, and so he may have a very good reason to treat you the way his is doing.

Upper Eyelid Surgery 2 Weeks Ago, Supposed to Have Dissolvable Stitches But Doctor Hasn't Taken Them Out? (photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Dissolvable sutures not dissolving

Answer: Dissolvable sutures not dissolving

Answer: 2 weeks post upper eyelid surgery with suture question

Answer: 2 weeks post upper eyelid surgery with suture question

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Upper Eyelid Surgery 2 Weeks Ago, Supposed to Have Dissolvable Stitches But Doctor Hasn't Taken Them Out? (photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Dissolvable sutures not dissolving

Answer: Dissolvable sutures not dissolving

Answer: 2 weeks post upper eyelid surgery with suture question

Answer: 2 weeks post upper eyelid surgery with suture question

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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