Can IPL be used on the nose?

Question

I had a series of 3 IPLs between Feb & April 2014 on my cheeks and nose due to redness (rosacea) and broken capillaries. I also had a rhinoplasty in 2012. Now I'm worried that my good rhinoplasty result has been harmed by IPL since I read that IPL boosts collagen formation. Could that mean that more collagen means my nasal skin became even thicker and hence my nose looks larger, or is my pattern of thinking illogical? I'm worried that the increased collagen on nose has thickened the nasal skin.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

IPL can be safely used on the nose. Some swelling and scarring of the nasal tip occurs after rhinoplasty and there are ways to thin the nose skin if necessary. Best, DR. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

James Bonaparte, MD, MSc, FRCSC · Answer

There is some basic evidence suggesting that IPL increases collagen levels, but remember, this does not mean increase scar levels.  There is one study that demonstrated an increase in collagen (more YOUTHFULL collagen) as well as a decrease in elastin (but more organized elastin). In the end, your skin will not become thicker, rather it will become more youthful if anything. Feel free to take a look at a recent post I made regarding a large evidence based review of IPL treatments. James P. Bonaparte, MD, MSc, FRCSCHead and Neck Surgerypracticing in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAssistant Professor, University of OttawaOttawa, Ontario, Canada

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

IPL can be used anywhere on the skin that has redness or browns.  It cannot be used on the eye unless there is an eye shield.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Kent V. Hasen, MD · Answer

IPL can be used safely on the nose to treat redness from rosacea.  The collagen stimulation is very mild, so it should have no bearing on your rhinoplasty results.  However, it is always best to discuss any treatments with your provider, and make sure they are aware of your past surgical history.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

IPL can be used on the nose. It boosts collagen production slightly. Barely. So there is not a chance your nose is going to enlarge or look any different than it already does. IPL is not what we recommend for collagen production because the effect is SO minor. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Can IPL be used on the nose?

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