Stitches never dissolved from breast lift

Question

I had a breast lift in 2016. In 2022, I still have stitches that never fully dissolved in certain area around my areola. Some are black, and very small. Others are flesh color that have a very foul smell. My scars are very wide, could this be a reason? What would cause my stitches not to dissolve? Was it due to surgical technique and not having them deep enough?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question @Ddrr123 I understand your concern, the most appropriate way to provide an expert opinion is to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to learn what is happening and what the best course of action would be. Best wishes!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Ddrr123,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

Without even seeing your problem I have an idea about what happen. I bet you had a periaerola lift where often a permanent suture is used to try to maintain the scar and areola shape. It sounds like your suture is infected and the scars have widened. You need to see a plastic surgeon to have the sutures removed. Once all is healed you should consider revising your lift into a lollipop which will improve your overall shape and has much higher quality scars. Your experience is why I and many many other plastic surgeons do not offer periaerola lifts as an option. Good luck.

David T. Chandler, MD · Answer

There are many possibilities for the issues you are having regarding the sutures. The sutures could have been non absorbable although it is unlikely that non absorbable sutures would have been placed within the tissues. Also, the sutures could be very long lasting but yet still absorbable sutures. Often times if the sutures are placed too superficially the body may not absorb the sutures and suture abscesses may occur. These are separate issues from the widened scars and again there are many factors related to scar widening. The scar may widen due to excessive tension on the closure line or from poor tissue strength. Also, if a wound has developed at a site of a suture abscess the healing that occurs afterward will give the appearance of a red widened scar.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have permanent stitches instead of dissolving ones. I would suggest going back to your surgeon and discussing your concerns.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Most dissolvable sutures will be absorbed within 2-4 months.  Some patients will 'spit' sutures (when you can feel the ends or knots coming out).   In some breast lift procedures, permanent internal sutures are placed.  If any sutures are palpable or seen after 4 months, they should be removed.
No foul odor is ever normal in incisions.  Go see your surgeon for their evaluation.

Douglas J. Raskin, MD (retired) · Answer

Greetings,
Your breast lifts in 2016 may still have stitches in certain areas around your areola.   Small black and  flesh colored sutures with a foul smell may be permanent sutures used at the time of surgery being extruded by your body.  Your surgeon should be seen to re-evaluate this late complication and determine the best course of treatment. Your surgeon can also review his (her) operative report to determine exactly what technique of nipple suturing was employed.
Best Regards,

Stitches never dissolved from breast lift

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