Open rhinoplasty skin tear - after care question. Any suggestions?

Question

I had revision open septorhinoplasty 19 days ago. During the surgery my PS accidentally tore my skin (he said it was stuck like glue). Is this common? Anyways, after he took off my tape (which was covering it) I asked if I should put anything on it and he told me "no, just let it get air". Unfortunately, it has now scabbed over. I am worried that it will scar badly when the scab starts to come off. Is there anything I can do to minimize scarring? Should I be keeping it moist with polysporine or Vaseline?

Christopher Saunders, MD · Answer

As bad as it might sound, this can and does happen. I'm sorry that it happened to you. Truthfilly, it happens more than is reported. The skin gets scarred down from prior surgery and can lead to this. The doctor needs to go really slowly to minimize it happening. The lifting of the skin can be one of the longest part of the operation when it is stuck down.It is called a button- hole.The good news? It usually heals extremely well!!I would use Neosporin twice a day for five days. Then reevaluate it after that. Some creams can be instituted after that.Keep follow ups with your doctor.Best WishesDr Chris Saunders

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for enquire.It's too early to make value judgments with only 3 weeks after a rhinoplasty.Swelling after a rhinoplasty depends of the surgery complexity.In this regard, the nasal swelling Post-op It can last from two weeks to two months.To reduce this swelling, I recommend you perform delicates daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the face (around the nose) avoid sun exposure, and take pain/inflamation pills, as your surgeron precribe you.Kind regards, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

This probably happens more than is reported. The tissues are often very scarred in after prior surgery and this is likely from dissection. Often they go on to heal quite well. Best of luck and follow you surgeons advice.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Secondary rhinoplasty can become quite difficult, and though not common, it is possible to penetrate the skin as the tip is exposed. Rather than a tear, this is often a sharp and clean opening, and the expectation is that the area will heal very well with little scar. We cannot give you advice as to the care without examination, though if you feel the healing has changed, let your surgeon see so he can clean, or adjust treatment for the best outcome.

Open rhinoplasty skin tear - after care question. Any suggestions?

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Answer: Open rhinoplasty skin tear.

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Open rhinoplasty skin tear - after care question. Any suggestions?

Answers (4)

Answer: Open rhinoplasty skin tear.

Answer: Open rhinoplasty skin tear.

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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