Alarplasty right side incision not healing correctly. 1 month post-op. (Photo)

Question

I had a rhinoplasty w/ alarplasty 5 weeks ago and the left side is healing great, but on the right side there is a bump that isn’t flush with the contour of my nostril. Is this scar tissue that will need to be excised or can this be corrected with laser (if it is scar tissue)? I’ve been very patient and have been waiting it out before wanting to contact my PS in hopes that it’s just normal healing, but it isn’t looking like a scab that will fall off, but discolored flesh instead. Thank you

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Plastic surgery scars require attention after surgery so that they remain cosmetically-appealing and barely noticeable. In our office, we use a protocol for scars that minimizes their activity in the 6-8 weeks after surgery. If you have late plastic surgery scars, you may also require laser and RF therapy to help reduce the longterm effects of the scarring. Keloids, hypertrophic scars, widened scars, red scars, and hyperpigmented scars all require scar modulation with topical creams followed by lasers and RF therapy. Topical skincare should be directed to a specific need, whether for pigmentation or hypertrophy and our office can guide you through the process to obtain the correct Plato’s Scar cream or Melarase cream for hypertrophy and discoloration. In terms of lasers, we would employ the vbeam laser for redness, Venus Viva RF, PRP microneedling, chemical peels, and Morpheus 8, fractional erbium, or fractional co2. All of these have their individual benefits. Most of all, we recommend you visit a solid plastic surgeon who understands surgical scar revision, laser therapy, and RF therapy for scars. 
 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Eric T. Waterman, MD, FACS · Answer

The asymmetry you perceive now will probably improve over time. You should expect your results to really shine in a couple months, but even now your results look very symmetrical. The raised area may need a minor revision, but I would advise waiting several months to allow natural healing to continue. Your PS may be able to address these concerns down the road after your recovery is more complete, but there isn’t anything you should do immediately other than continue to drink lots of water and eat healthy balanced meals!

Somyos Kunachak, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi plmokn123,While the photos are not clear, the right area seems to be forming a scar. While this should still improve, laser will help camouflage it better in the long run. A personal evaluation is however still necessary now if the area concerns you.

Alarplasty right side incision not healing correctly. 1 month post-op. (Photo)

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Alarplasty right side incision not healing correctly. 1 month post-op. (Photo)

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