Shaving down scar tissue - will this fix my issue? (Photo)

Question

I got a rhinoplasty a year ago and 2 mo. ago and currently have a small but noticeable bump on my bridge due to scar tissue. I have gotten one steroid shot when I was 8-9 mo. post op but it is still there. The doctor suggested shaving down the fibrosis. Will shaving down fix my issue? How is this done?will it grow back? what is post care like and common complications?

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I don’t recommend having rasping performed under local anesthesia. This will usually make the nose look better for 1-2 months and then it will actually get much worse long-term afterwards, with contour irregularities developing. This is because the skin of the dorsum is extremely thin. A much better approach is to do a formal revision with rasping and placement of a dorsal onlay fascial graft to help smooth the dorsum. Based on your photographs you may also benefit from a tip deprojection during your revision. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Shaving down scar tissue - will this fix my issue? (Photo)

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