Can My Nose Scar Be Revised At The Same Time As A Rhinoplasty?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am planning on having a scar revision for a vertical scar on the bridge of my nose. At the same time I want to correct sinus problems: turbinoplasty, septoplasty as well as rhinoplasty for some minor aesthetic improvements. I’m hoping the minor nose humps can be grinded so they won’t exaggerate the contours of the scar. How can I minimize the new scar on the bridge from becoming widened over time, developing little arterioles, or the skin getting too thin? What laser should I plan for post-surgery?

A: Based on your question, I would need to have a better idea as to the type of external rhinoplasty you would be having. Will this involve rasping of the bridge or will it require osteotomies as well? Either way, however, I would not perform a scar revision directly over the nasal skin that is being raised during the rhinoplasty. This is not a blood supply concern but one of scar healing. The swelling of the nasal tissues after a rhinoplasty will work directly against having a good scar result. You would be much better to delay the scar revision to after the rhinoplasty, preferably 3 to 6 months later. Scar revision on raised rhinoplasty skin is not a good simultaneous idea if you want the best scar result.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana