The application of the tie-down suture to the excision of cutaneous tumors.

We describe a surgical procedure that acts as a compressive dressing and contributes to eliminate dead spaces. Because of its similarity to a tie-down dressing, this technique is called the "tie-down suture." It is especially indicated after excision of mass lesions--epidermoid and dermoid cysts, steatocystomas, lipomas, hibernomas, etc.--where there are real or virtual dead spaces; in high-movement or hairy areas where compressive dressings or adhesive tapes are difficult to hold in place; and in particular, in anatomic sites such as behind the auricle, armpit, or eyebrow.