Alar base reduction not healing well at 5 weeks post op? (photo)

Question

I am concerned my incision from my alar base reduction 5 weeks ago is not healing well on the left. The right has healed beautifully. At 2 weeks I accidentally scratched off the scab. As a homeopathic remedy I was applying Manuca honey. I have now stopped, but it looks like the previous pin hole has spread and the incision has slightly pulled apart. Will this heal on it's own? I have an appointment with my PS in 3 days. He is currently on vacation. Does it look like it will close up on it's own?

John Bitner, MD · Answer

It looks like the incision should heal well and I don't think that the Manuca honey has effected the healing.  However, the placement of the incision looks to be a little high on the ala.  I generally try to avoid the portion of the alar rim that starts to curve away from the cheek and keep it, in your situation, a little closer to the middle.  It should heal OK, but may have a little notch there long-term.

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Five weeks after rhinoplasty and alar base reduction, the incisions should be pretty well healed up. The incision should heal up over the next couple weeks and may require some touch up procedures to improve the appearance.

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