Thick scar tissue affecting the contour of my nose, will I need steroid injections? (Photos)

In the first few months following a rhinoplasty, injection of steroid (Kenalog) has shown to have a positive effect in softening and thinning of the scar, a practice often targeting areas of interest around the tip. However, it is best to consult the primary surgeon as there are nuances with details of the surgery, what grafts or implants have potentially been used, preoperative and intraoperative findings...

Hi, and thank you for your question. Post-rhinoplasty, steroid (Kenalog) injections often help to thin and minimize scar tissue and reduce inflammation and swelling. There are limits to this treatment, however, and it won’t necessarily change contour lines resultant from thicker skin or cartilage. Further, if cartilage or other grafts were part of your surgery, then steroid injections may not address your concerns. Also, since this area of the nose typically takes longest to heal, your final outcome simply may not be ascertainable at this stage. Schedule a follow-up with the board-certified facial plastic surgeon who performed your procedure, share your concerns, and discuss possible next steps. Good luck!
- Jacqueline T. Cheng, MD

I commonly use steroid injections in the nasal tip to help thin out the skin and obtain a refined appearance.  This is a common practice and I agree it is worth doing in your case.