How to get rid of a purple scar on my nose from a nose piercing I had over 5 years ago? (Photo)

Question

I have a purple scar on my nose from a nose piercing I had over 5 years ago. I got an infection and it never healed back to normal. What can I do to get a rid of it or fade it? I had someone suggest tattoo lazer removal, V beam, and IPL. What would be the best treatment for me?

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is likely pigmentation and would need resurfacing or pigmented laser treatment, please speak to a well trained laser physician.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Catlover.  This type of scar is caused by oxidation of the metal under the surface of the skin.  It's likely that the piercing was a metal that turned a greenish color while you had the piercing.  A V-Beam and IPL will not work (we have both) but a q-switched tattoo laser would normally get rid of this type of scar in 1 or 2 treatments.  To see a case very similar to yours where we removed the pigment in one treatment, please click on the link below.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

The V-Beam is the best way to generally treat this type of scar.  It may take several sessions to restore the color back to normal.  Best, Dr. Green

How to get rid of a purple scar on my nose from a nose piercing I had over 5 years ago? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Purple Scar and V-Beam

Answer: Purple Scar and V-Beam

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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

How to get rid of a purple scar on my nose from a nose piercing I had over 5 years ago? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Purple Scar and V-Beam

Answer: Purple Scar and V-Beam

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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.