How can I speed up the hemosiderin staining post rhinoplasty? Should I continue my arnica and bromelain supplements? (Photo)

Question

I'm one month post rhinoplasty and getting different opinions from doctors. The plastic surgeon suggested hydorquinone which my derm does not recommend 1) putting around the eye and 2) said it would penetrate deep enough to remove the staining since it only works on the surface. The derm recommended a vitamin k cream. What else can I do? How long till it's fully gone? Is there a chance it is permanent?

Marcelo Ghersi, MD · Answer

Hello. I know it is not very comforting, but with time, most if not all of the dark discoloration should go away. I would follow your dermatologists recommendation.

Jennifer Levine, MD · Answer

At one month post-op, you are still healing. Vitamin K oxide gel has shown to reduce staining by preventing and reversing the formation of hemosiderin. Continue with your dermatologist’s recommendations.

Andrew Kornstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Certain people are genetically prone to hemosiderin staining; in my experience it has been difficult, if not impossible, to determine who they are preoperatively. All iron staining does eventually resolve, although it can take many months. There is nothing I have found that has truly helped speed the resolution.Your frontal  views seems to show some pigmentation of the upper lip. Is that photography artifact or does your lip have some pigmentation?If so, your pigment appears to be in areas of early (aging) bone atrophy and therefore may benefit from fat grafting to restore skin support and circulation.Hope this helps.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If it is hemosedirin staining then I do not think the hydroquinone or vitamin k cream will do much. Often time is the great equalizer.

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How can I speed up the hemosiderin staining post rhinoplasty? Should I continue my arnica and bromelain supplements? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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