Suture Granuloma in Body Contouring Surgery

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of different suture material on the incidence of suture granuloma.

Bariatric surgery has evolved as an effective treatment for morbid obesity, inducing rapid and predictable weight loss within a period of 12 to 18 months following surgery. Consequently, body contouring after weight loss is emerging as the fastest growing field of plastic surgery. Patients seek consultation with a plastic surgeon to correct skin laxity of the abdomen, thighs, chest, back, and neck. A major problem in body contourinig is the extrusion of absorbable suture material used for dermal closure. Long incisions and high tension inherent to body contouring surgery mandate a secure dermal closure. While absorbable sutures are preferred, they can result in suture granuloma and extrusion.