Columella is red and irritated. How do I know when to ask my doctor for help? (Photo)

Often the columella incision heals very well.   At one week it is too early to tell the long term result. Any questions should be addressed by your surgeon.

Rhinoplasty is a surgery to improve the shape of the nose for breathing or appearance.In an open or external approach, there is an incision across the band of skin between your nostrils. This is called your columella. Luckily, this area heals well. During surgery, I meticulously close this area. It's worth the extra time to make it less visible. There are some strategies to help it heal. It's important to make sure the incision does not dry out. At the beginning you can use antibiotic ointment (bacitracin). After a week, I switch my patients to an ointment without antibiotics in it. Sun protection is also important for scars to heal well. Keep your follow-up appointments with your surgeon so she/he can keep you on track for safe and happy result. Safety comes first.