Persistent Stitches After Mole Removal: Is It Normal?

The stitches from the mole removal surgery were not completely removed?

Hello doctor, I had my stitches removed at the hospital in early August after a mole excision, but recently I've noticed some suture ends coming out of the wound.
I've already gone to another dermatology clinic to have them removed twice, but a few days later, the suture ends reappear.
Is this normal? Thank you.

Jia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/30

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It is possible that it is the inner absorbable sutures; it is recommended to have the original surgeon take a look again.

Reply Date: 2023/08/30

More Info

After mole removal, it is not uncommon to experience some residual symptoms, including the appearance of stitch ends or suture material protruding from the wound site. However, the persistence of these stitch ends, especially after having them removed multiple times, raises some concerns that should be addressed.

When a mole is surgically excised, the area is typically closed with sutures (stitches) to promote healing. These sutures can be either absorbable or non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures are designed to dissolve on their own over time, while non-absorbable sutures need to be removed by a healthcare professional. If you are noticing stitch ends appearing after the removal of your stitches, it could indicate that some of the suture material was not fully removed or that the sutures used were not absorbable and are still present in the tissue.

It is essential to consider the following points regarding your situation:
1. Type of Sutures Used: If the sutures used were absorbable, they should gradually dissolve and not cause any further issues. If they were non-absorbable, they must be completely removed to prevent complications.

2. Healing Process: The healing process varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience slower healing, which can lead to the visibility of stitch ends. If the area is still healing, it might be normal for some suture material to be present temporarily.

3. Infection or Inflammation: If the area around the mole removal site is red, swollen, or painful, it could indicate an infection or an inflammatory response. In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

4. Follow-Up Care: Since you have already visited another dermatology clinic for suture removal twice, it would be advisable to return to the clinic or consult with your original surgeon. They can assess the wound and determine whether any remaining suture material needs to be removed or if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

5. Self-Care: In the meantime, keep the area clean and dry. Avoid picking at the site or trying to remove any visible suture ends yourself, as this could lead to infection or further complications.

In summary, while it is not entirely unusual to see stitch ends after mole removal, the persistence of these ends, especially after multiple attempts to remove them, warrants further evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is crucial to ensure that the wound is healing properly and that there are no complications such as infection or retained suture material. Always prioritize follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure optimal healing and recovery.

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