Stitch Removal
Why Microsurgical Technique Matters
Cosmetic stitches are extremely fine and embedded - standard instruments (e.g. Adson forceps) risk marking or damaging the wound. We perform all removals under magnification using microsurgical instruments to minimize trauma and protect cosmetic outcome.
Common Types of Cosmetic Surgery Scars
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Facelift
Scars typically run along the hairline — from the temple, down to the ear, and sometimes behind the ear or in the scalp.
Why scars may heal poorly:
- Too much tension when stitching
- Partial wound breakdown or infection
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Eyelids
For Asian upper blepharoplasty or eyelid crease formation, stitches are usually placed in the new crease. Lower blepharoplasty and related procedures may involve incisions near the inner or outer corners of the eye.
Why scars may heal poorly:
- Delicate area; timing of suture removal is important
- Small inclusion cysts or inflammation can complicate healing
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Nose (Rhinoplasty)
Open rhinoplasty involves a columella incision, often in continuity with incisions inside the nostrils. Depending on the specific technique, some patients have additional scars where cartilage or fascia may have been taken (scalp, ear, chest).
Why scars may heal poorly:
- The columella has limited blood supply, which can sometimes affect healing
- Scars on the chest can be prone to poor scarring while those in the scalp can affect hair re-growth
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Breast
Most commonly, scars are found in the new breast fold on the chest. Others, depending on the procedure, can be around the nipple, like a lollipop or anchor-shape extending from around the nipple with a vertical extension down onto the chest, or in the armpit.
Why scars may heal poorly:
- The chest is more prone to poor scarring (raised, red) especially in Asian patients
- The armpit is not generally considered a clean area, so wound healing may not be as good
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Liposuction
Scars are often small but can become visible, discolored, irregular, or indented.
Why scars may heal poorly:
- Stitching technique and repeated trauma from the cannula
For surgical review or assessment of outcomes, Dr Ng can be consulted via ZNG Plastic Surgery
Case Examples
1. Revision Rhinoplasty - A patient presented after a revision rhinoplasty performed abroad. During prior stitch removal at another clinic, she experienced discomfort. With Doctor Stitch, careful and meticulous technique was applied to remove the sutures with minimal tissue trauma, ensuring the procedure was smooth and precise.
2. Facelift - A patient who had undergone a facelift abroad required follow-up stitch removal. The sutures were very fine, which posed a challenge for standard removal. With Doctor Stitch, we employed delicate handling and appropriate technique to safely remove the sutures, minimizing tissue trauma.
