Bad scar after rhinoplasty? (photo)

Question

I had an open rhinoplasty 14 months ago. I have a terrible scar. (I have no history of bad scarring and usually heal well). My nose has various other issues as well, and I plan on having a revision in two months with a different surgeon. I was wondering if this scar can be revised during surgery, or if it will only become worse with a revision surgery since the doc has to use my old scar? I plan on asking my surgeon this as well, obviously, but I just wanted other opinions. thank you! :)

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The scar can be revised and can likely be improved with regard to appearance.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

During your revision rhinoplasty your surgeon can perform a scar revision by excising the old scar.  With a meticulous, tension-free closure the appearance of the scar should improve.

Roy A. David, MD · Answer

The open rhinoplasty incision usually heals extremely well, and is virtually never an issue. However, there are always exceptions, and some scars may benefit from resurfacing or revision.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Your scar can be improved with a revision; this appearance is unfortunate and unnecessary. At the same time consider surgery to improve your tip asymmetry, raise your hanging columella (the tissue between your nostrils), and fill the depression above the tip.

Bad scar after rhinoplasty? (photo)

Answers (6)