Is my alar base reduction healing properly or infected? (photos)

Question

I kept reading on forums that after a week the scars or healing when alarplasty has been done should hardly be noticeable. But after 8 days I have this pale yellow pus looking where the cut was done. And now there are tiny little bumps forming....Supposedly its just healing, but I need to go back into work and I want to know if I should really be concerned by the looks of it. I've already missed a week and now have to miss another week because not even make up can cover it.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Your incisions are either infected or reacting to suture material or the ointment you are putting on. Step 1. Need oral antibioticStep 2. Get all sutures removedStep 3. Start applying Bactroban (Mupirocin) ointment 5 times a dayStep 4. Buy Hibiclens over the counter hand wash and use that to wash your hands before cleaning your noseStep 5. Clean your incisions with Q tips (cotton applicators) and hydrogen peroxide 5 times a day. Step 6. Buy skin colored (tan) 1/2 inch wide paper tape or ask your surgeon for some and use it to cover the incisions to get back to work. RegardsDr. J

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

There is definitely something going on with those incisions. They should be pink at this point but narrow without the film over the top. I recommend that you followup with your surgeon to figure out if this is the normal process for their patients or if there's something you can do to speed the healing. I wish you the best in your recovery.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Infection is entirely possible, but since both incisions appear inflamed, you could be having a reaction to your sutures. If you're using topical antibiotic ointment with neomycin (Neosporin), you may be having a sensitivity reaction to this topical medication. If you cannot consult with your surgeon, you should visit a reputable rhinoplasty specialist so you could see what might be best for you.Wishing you speedy resolution.Dr. Joseph

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

If you haven't already, then you should speak directly with your rhinoplasty surgeon. As other surgeons have stated here, incisions after plastic surgery can be red or irritated in the early or later stages of healing from many possible factors, including infection, reaction to sutures, reaction to some ointments, etc. Regardless of possible reasons, your plastic surgeon should evaluate you and determine appropriate options.Best,Dr. Chaboki

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Your nasal skin  may be irritated or reacting to the sutures. Best to see your doctor in person to be properly evaluated.

Is my alar base reduction healing properly or infected? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Nostril healing after rhinoplasty

Answer: Nostril healing after rhinoplasty

Answer: Alar base issue

Answer: Alar base issue

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Alarplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is my alar base reduction healing properly or infected? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Nostril healing after rhinoplasty

Answer: Nostril healing after rhinoplasty

Answer: Alar base issue

Answer: Alar base issue

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Alarplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.