Can post-rhinoplasty bruises leave permanent staining? (Photo)

Question

I am 7 weeks post-op (open septo-rhino). I still have dark blue marks under the eyes and upper cheeks. Is this hemosiderin? Will it ever go away? They appear brown on the picture but they are of a very dark blue. Thank you!

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @LilaW16--this does appear to be hemosiderin which is an iron containing pigment found in red blood cells. I recommend treating this sooner rather than later. The Q-switched Ruby laser can treat hyperpigmentation Best of luck to you!

Tanya Judge, MD · Answer

Hi,
Yes, it is most likely hemosiderin, which is a pigment found in red blood cells. At this stage if it has not been reabsorbed by your body it can lead to a permanent darkening under your eyes.  Best thing to do is to treat it with a laser that is meant to focus on that particular pigment.  See if your Plastic Surgeon has the correct laser, if not, another Plastic Surgeon in your area or even a Dermatologist should have the proper equipment and be able to help you out.  This can happy after facial procedures.
Good Luck!
Tanya Judge, MD

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

Yes, hemosiderin, as you properly described this can be long term if not permanent.  This should be treated early and aggressively in my opinion with some form of energy based systems (broad based or intense pulsed light 515 nM may be sufficient or a V Beam type laser may be required). These therapies should be available from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. If it is more of a bluish hue, different wave lengths may be employed.

Can post-rhinoplasty bruises leave permanent staining? (Photo)

Answers (3)