Advice on lip scar from dog bite? 4 month old wound. (photos)

Question

End of February my dog bit my lip, sent to emerg and recieved plastic surgery stitches. The bite did not go through the internal lip but made a flap-like cut on the bottom external lip. I have been massaging daily but the bump does not leave and is noticeable when I smile. Is there any way I will be able to have my old smile back? Thanks for your time, Stephanie

Thomas P. Sterry, MD · Answer

Looks to me like you are still quite swollen.  I would give this type of injury a good 6 months to a year before deciding to do anything about it.  However, the answer is "Yes", there are several possible treatments.  The most obvious is a mild steroid injection.  Also a possibility is revising the scar or performing dermabrasion to smooth it out.  Finally, if all else fails, you could always debulk the lip to make it smaller.Please find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to consult with in your area and get some advice from a doctor that can see you in 3-D!Good Luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs a combination of fractional laser and pulsed dye lasers for improvement.  Please see a laser expert for treatment.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Begin with application of Plato's Scar Serum followed by pulsed dye laser. You may ultimately need surgical scar revision of the area once it has calmed down. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Advice on lip scar from dog bite? 4 month old wound. (photos)

Answers (3)

More Scar Removal Questions

What can I do about scars from scratches that are turning dark? (Photo)

How can I get rid of the scar on my forehead which was caused by a scratch from a fingernail? (Photo)

How can I get rid of hyperpigmentation left by a year old curling iron related burn on the arm? (photo)

Best treatment to remove scars from IV drug use

Under the skin, huge lump of scar tissue on buttocks

What are my options to get rid of this c-section keloid scar? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS