Is it possible to remove my nose piercing marks? (Photo)

Question

I had this nose pierced when was very young but now this more than 17 years I haven’t wore anything but my marks are still there. It’s looks very ugly as it’s still deep hole and easily visible which I can’t conceal with even cosmetics. Can you suggest anything?

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I have personally had success with closing similar piercing holes using a series of TCA CROSS  treatments, much the same way this technique is used for dealing with ice pick scars and enlarged pores. A series of two to four treatment sessions are typically required to achieve optimal narrowing. The photo also seems to indicate a linear, indented scar, as well, which may have resulted from stretching of the original hole over time.  If this is indeed so, then a small subcision may be helpful for generally elevating and smoothing the scar, after which the TCA CROSS may be used to close the actual hole. Finally, Dermastamp microneedling may be used to achieve better blending of superficial surface texture and color with the surrounding normal skin. Hope this helps. Best of luck

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Depressed scars can be improved with vascular lasers like Yellow laser or Excel V when they are red --- and with CO2 spot treatments, fillers, microneedling with PRP, and subcision to help with texture and blending. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Shobhan Manoharan, MBBS, FACD · Answer

Many of these piercings, especially if not too wide or through-and-through, will respond well to a series of treatments with the TCA CROSS technique.  You can follow this up with some fractional ablative or non-ablative laser or radiofrequency microneedling to finesse the end results.  Best wishes, Shobhan.

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. It's difficult to evaluate and assess your skin through photos, but from what I can see, it looks like you have atrophic (indentation) scarring. Treatment options that injure the skin with subsequent collagen formation such as fractionated laser, dermaroller, resurfacing lasers, etc., may help your condition.  Fillers are a good option, specifically Bellafill®, a permanent filler. Bellafil® is FDA approved in treating acne scars.  The right modality for you depends on your skin type, expectations, patience, downtime, and cost. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to have your skin evaluated and to discuss treatment options that best suit your needs. Take care and good luck.

Is it possible to remove my nose piercing marks? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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