Are there lasers that can remove an open rhinoplasty scar?

Question

I'm thinking about getting an open rhinoplasty (just in the research stages) + keep hearing that the doctor cuts across your nose + that you'll have a pink line after!! I read that people use scar fading ointment. Do lasers also work + if so, what is the name of that laser? Thanks!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

We recommend a HIDEF Scar revision which includes application of 
Plato's Scar Serum and a retinoid for two weeks, laser therapy for 
texture and color and redness, followed by RF therapy to improve 
contour. Finally, microfractional laser for final microtexture. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. When good technique is used, it would be extremely rare that the incision from open rhinoplasty would ever be visible longterm. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and not just a computer animation system. You should be able to view numerous pictures of actual patients with noses similar to yours performed by your surgeon. If you cannot find enough real before and after pictures, then consider continuing your search for a surgeon. Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS

Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS

Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Blake Raggio, MD · Answer

Please Read below an excerpt from an article I authored on "Open Rhinoplasty" outlining the reason why most Rhinoplasty are performed via open technique and a description regarding the associated scars which are barely perceptible. 
"Rhinoplasty is indicated for the correction of any functional or cosmetic deficits of the nose. The debate continues as to whether closed (endonasal) vs. open rhinoplasty is superior; however, the widely accepted opinion is that the open approach (the more common approach) has numerous advantages, namely improved visualization. The ability to directly visualize the surgical maneuvers underway not only enhances diagnostic accuracy and correction of deformities but also facilitates education and participation of team members.
External transcolumellar scar. Note: the majority of patients (98%) are not “disturbed” by their external rhinoplasty scar, with 90% considering them to be invisible or barely perceptible. Furthermore, for the patient with anxiety regarding suture removal, the surgeon can use rapid resorbable sutures to lessen discomfort."
Just to reiterate, the external incision (if performed correctly) should be barely perceptible once the healing is complete after several months time. In addition to meticulous surgical technique, the patient can help to improve the appearance of the scar by doing the following:
1) thorough wound care in the immediate post-operative period (H202 and ABX ointment and vaseline)
2) avoid intense sun exposure, apply SPF to incisions for first several months
3) scar gel (silicone based) to the incision lines for several months after the surgery
All in all, make sure you choose a surgeon who is considered an expert and/or very comfortable with the open approach to rhinoplasty.
Hope this helps,
Blake Raggio, MD (@dr.raggio)

Sybile Val, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

When good technique is used, it would be extremely rare that the incision from open rhinoplasty would ever be visible longterm.  This is a common surgery and in the hands of a good plastic surgeon, this should not be an issue.

Are there lasers that can remove an open rhinoplasty scar?

Answers (4)

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