How can I further improve the appearance of scar under my right nostril? (Photos)

Question

Hi, I had scar excision surgery under my right nostril 3.5 years ago, and while I did see improvements, it didnt heal perfectly. Theres still a noticeable shine in the area that’s noticeable at certain angles. What procedures, if possible, would be best to help the scar blend in more with the surrounding skin and reduce the sheen?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concern and photos. It’s very common for scars, even years after excision, to have subtle differences in texture, pigmentation, or shine compared to surrounding skin. The good news is that there are several approaches that can help improve blending and reduce the reflective “shine” over time.

Some options to consider include:

Laser Treatments: Fractional CO₂ or erbium lasers can remodel scar tissue, improving texture and reducing shine. Vascular or pigment-specific lasers may help if the scar is slightly red or discolored.

Microneedling: This can stimulate collagen in the scar, softening its appearance and helping it blend with the surrounding skin. Often combined with topical treatments for added benefit.

Topical Treatments: Silicone gels or sheets, or sometimes certain lightening creams, can help improve texture and reduce reflectivity over time.

Subtle Fillers: In some cases, tiny amounts of filler can smooth out minor depressions around the scar, making it less noticeable from different angles.

Because your scar is already mature at 3.5 years, improvements are more gradual but still achievable with the right approach. Often, the best results come from a combination of treatments tailored to the scar’s specific texture, color, and location.

Even small refinements can make the scar blend more naturally with the surrounding skin and reduce that noticeable shine.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I am sorry this has happened to you. However, residual hypopigmented scars from any cause, whether from trauma, infection, acne or, as in this case, post-surgical, can be improved via the use of manually performed Dermastamp microneedling (no need for the added expense or risks of RF microneedling) accompanied by the application of Rx topical pigment enhancing agents). You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist and best of luck.

How can I further improve the appearance of scar under my right nostril? (Photos)

Answers (2)

More Scar Removal Questions

What is the Best Way to Treat a Childhood Atrophic Scar and Dent on Forhead? (Photos)

What is the best procedure to treat a raised scar from a biopsy thirty years ago? (Photo)

Is dermabrasion the right treatment for my nose scar? (Photos)

Scarring after microneedling - how can I treat this? (Photos)

Scar from sutures - what is the best way to treat this? (Photo)

Rhytidectony and chin lipo 5 years ago and HATE the scar it left - how can the scar be improved? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS