Is it worth looking into excision for my old lip piercing hole? (Photo)

Question

Back when I was a teenager, I got my lip pierced which left a hole on my lower lip on the right side. I have heard it can be excised and then stitched up so that the hole will be closed and if a scar forms at all, it will be linear. Is it worth looking into? I hardly notice it anymore since I've had it for so long, but some days I focus on it.

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

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

This small hole can be closed by being (1) excised through the lip and (2) closed with a stitch or two. If done well it should heal as a small white dot that is hardly noticeable.It can be done in the office under local anesthesia.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mementomori,
You are right, it can be excised. And with good surgical technique, you can have a barely visible scar. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Regan Thomas, MD · Answer

I understand your desire and goal. The piercing defect hole can indeed be excised and closed so that it will be less noticeable.  This would be a minor excision that will result in a very small resultant scar and less visible than the hole from your piercing.  Best wishes to you as you pursue your treatment.

Is it worth looking into excision for my old lip piercing hole? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Lip Scar

Answer: Lip Scar

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Is it worth looking into excision for my old lip piercing hole? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Lip Scar

Answer: Lip Scar

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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