Dog Bite on Nose

Question

Hi , You can call me Y2 and I'm 26 years old. Three years ago I was bitten by a dog on my nose. I got seven stitches from the left side of my nose going across the bridge of my nose then over to the right side of my nose. They also put a stitch in the tip of my nose. I noticed a couple of posts about different treatments. They attempted to re-cut open the scar and re stitch to adjust the width of the scar. I also had 5 fraxel procedures done. What if any would be my best next procedure to do?

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Y2, From the single photo you've included, your scar appears widened and slightly depressed. I don't think that any laser treatments will help with this. Typically this requires cutting out the scar and meticulously closing the wound with no tension. Dermabrasion (sanding of the skin, not MICROdermabrasion) at 6 weeks can help further camouflage the new scar. I think this will be very pleasing for you.
	Best wishes,Stephen Weber MD, FACS

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

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

Dear UnSure18 in Illinois,

	As other plastic surgeons have stated, treatment for nasal scars may include excising the scar to narrow the width & reduce its depression. Dermabrasion of the scar at several weeks may then be required to further improved the appearance. Speak with a plastic surgeon to help determine appropriate options for you. Best of luck.

	Dr. C

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Thanks for the photo. I would try a re excision and w-plasty closure followed by dermabrasion in 2 to 3 months. Did the Fraxel help? I guess not. Best of luck.

Dog Bite on Nose

Answers (4)