Patient and Observer Graded Rhinoplasty Scar Outcomes: A Randomized-Controlled Trial of Fast Absorbing Versus Permanent Columellar Suture Closure

Traditional suture closure of the columellar scar in rhinoplasty is achieved with permanent skin sutures. These sutures create less inflammation and are thought to lead to improved final scar outcomes. However, permanent sutures require removal which creates pain and inconvenience for the patient. Some surgeons use fast absorbing sutures that do not require removal. The difference in final scar outcome based on suture material used has not been well studied. This study will examine the final scar outcomes of rhinoplasty incisions sutured with traditional permanent suture compared to fast absorbing suture. If scar outcomes are similar between these groups as judged by the patients and blinded observers, rhinoplasty surgeons may be able to preferentially utilize absorbable sutures for incision closure and avoid the pain and inconvenience for the patient during suture removal