Will Dark-skinned Patients Getting Septoplasty Have Unslightly Scars Around Nostrils? (photo)

Question

I am considering a septoplasty. I have seen some awful scars from septoplasty done on light-skinned patients: http://www.atlantaplastic.com/wp-content/gallery/septorhino-03/septorhino-03e-thick.jpg In that picture, the man's scarring is very apparent. I have dark-skin and I am worried that this would be potentially horrible for me since I could form keloids around my nostrils. Is this procedure safe for me? I have included a picture.

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

There should not be external scars with a septoplasty, as the incisions are made inside the nose. In general, a small external scar is left during an open rhinoplasty. The goal is to make this scar minimally visible, and it heals rather nicely when the procedure is performed with precision. I would recommend doing your homework and seeking out a board certified surgeon who has a great deal of experience. This will ensure you obtain the best possible result. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

For a rhinoplasty, sometimes incisions are used on the outside of the nose.  However for a septoplasty, to correct a deviated septum, all the incisions can be designed so that they are hidden inside the nose.  Whether you have light or dark skin, the incisions will not be seen if properly designed.

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

The photos you provided the link to show a rhinoplasty scar (across the columella) including alar base reduction scars (across the nostrils).

	A standard septoplasty places a hidden incision inside the nostril area so it shouldn't be visible. I've not heard of keloid scarring in this area.

	You can look at my web reference below to get a better idea where the septoplasty incision is placed and what surgery entails.

Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS · Answer

The photo you linked to showed poorly placed and poorly executed incisions.  When incisions placed to reduce nostril width and flare are placed and executed properly, they should be very difficult to see (see link below for an example).  Keloids from nostril reduction incisions are exceedingly rare (I have never seen it).  Go see an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon and discuss your concerns.

Christopher J. Peers, MD · Answer

Since there are no outside incisions, there ought not to be any visible sign of surgery; so you should feel assured this is not likely to be a problem.

Will Dark-skinned Patients Getting Septoplasty Have Unslightly Scars Around Nostrils? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Scars around nostrils

Answer: Scars around nostrils

Answer: Septoplasty is almost always done within the nose

Answer: Septoplasty is almost always done within the nose

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

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Will Dark-skinned Patients Getting Septoplasty Have Unslightly Scars Around Nostrils? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Scars around nostrils

Answer: Scars around nostrils

Answer: Septoplasty is almost always done within the nose

Answer: Septoplasty is almost always done within the nose

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.