What can be done to help scarring of line across nose and depressed nasolabial lines?

Question

After years of using my nail to scratch across my nose from one end of the nostril to the other, a visible, dark line formed running across it. I have tried chemical peels & they have done nothing to make the line go away. It has also caused depressed smile lines to develop close to my nose. I have seen pics of reconstructive surgery to remove nasal skin and replace it with a skin graft. I have also researched fat grafting to help w/ the nasolabial lines.Would these or any other techniques help?

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It’s hard to see what the problem is from your pictures. Your description also doesn’t make it clear if this line is due to simply hyper pigmentation or if this is due to scar tissue formation.  hydroquinone I probably the best way to go if it’s hyperpigmentation. The other thing to keep in mind is to absolutely not scratch the area because doing so caused the problem in the area will be very sensitive to even gentle scratching in the future.

If the problem was scar tissue then the direct excision may be possible but in someone who formed a visible line from simply scratching their nose surgery could make things much worse.

I suggest having a few in person Consultations with local board-certified plastic surgeons.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom, MD
Linea nova body contouring

Csaba L. Magassy, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

The problem with your skin, and the the slightly darker pigmentation is due to trauma. Probably the most reasonable and conservative treatment would be a Hydroquinone cream to decrease the darker pigmentation. Certainly a  consultation with a Plastic Surgeon   would be your best option

What can be done to help scarring of line across nose and depressed nasolabial lines?

Answers (2)