Whether you like it or not, going under the knife comes with scars—rhinoplasties included. Mind you, scarring goes away, especially if you follow instructions on post-op care. But of course, your mileage may vary. This post will examine scarring after rhinoplasties, how they can differ among patients, and what one can do if a rhinoplasty scar lingers.
Open Rhinoplasty Scars
With an open rhinoplasty, surgeons make a small incision on the columella (the strip of skin between your nostrils). Since the incision is small, the resulting scar is typically tiny and well-hidden. In fact, most patients find that it fades over time to the point where it’s barely noticeable. Initially, it might look like a thin, raised line, but as it heals, it tends to flatten out and become almost invisible.
That said, your experience may vary. Healing can depend on factors like your skin type, your body’s natural ability to recover, and how well you stick to post-op care. If you follow your surgeon’s instructions, you’ll likely see the scar fade significantly within a year. In many cases, it gets so faint that only a close inspection will reveal its presence.
Closed Rhinoplasty Scars
Now, if you’re worried about visible scars, closed rhinoplasty might be the better option for you. All the incisions are made inside the nostrils, which means no visible external marks. This technique is ideal for people who want minor to moderate changes and prefer to avoid external scarring altogether.
Of course, there’s still some scarring, but it’s internal and hidden within the nasal passages. Over time, these internal scars soften, becoming almost impossible to detect. Plus, the healing process for internal scars tends to be quicker and less noticeable than external ones. Most patients report minimal discomfort after the initial recovery phase, and those scars? They’re well out of sight.
How Long Does a Rhinoplasty Scar Typically Last?
Scars from rhinoplasty—especially from open procedures—usually start fading within 3 to 6 months. Healing doesn’t stop there, though; your scars will continue to improve for up to a year or more after surgery. During the first few weeks, your incisions will start to heal, and any bruising or swelling will subside. By the six-week mark, your nose will look much more natural, though subtle changes may continue to happen.
But everyone heals differently. Factors like your skin type, age, and how closely you stick to your post-op care can affect how quickly your scars fade. In most cases, scarring becomes barely noticeable within a year, but some patients might take a little longer.
What to Do if Scarring is Severe or Long-Lasting
If your scars don’t fade as expected, don’t panic—there are treatments available. Steroid injections can help soften thickened scars and reduce inflammation. Laser therapy can smooth out uneven skin and reduce discoloration, making the scar blend more naturally with the surrounding tissue.
In some cases, your surgeon might recommend silicone gel or sheets to promote even healing. If the scar is particularly stubborn, a minor surgical revision might help to refine its appearance.
What You Can Do to Minimize a Rhinoplasty Scar
The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to make sure your rhinoplasty scar heals as discreetly as possible. Many of these post-care tips are habits you can take in the comfort of your own home.
Tips to Speed Up Your Rhinoplasty Scar Healing
- Stick to your surgeon’s post-op care instructions.
- Avoid direct sunlight on your nose, and always use high-SPF sunscreen.
- Keep your incision sites clean and moisturized as directed.
- Don’t smoke—it hinders healing and can make a rhinoplasty scar worse.
- Eat a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E to support optimal healing.
- Once your surgeon gives the green light, gently massage your nose to break down scar tissue.
Ultimately, Choose the Right Surgeon
At the end of the day, the best way to minimize scarring is to choose a skilled surgeon with plenty of experience in rhinoplasty. A board-certified plastic surgeon knows how to make incisions that are barely noticeable, and they’ll provide you with all the post-op guidance you need. Yes, some scarring is inevitable, but with the right surgeon, it will be minimal.
If you’re considering rhinoplasty in Toronto, Dr. Richard Rival is a trusted facial plastic surgeon with years of experience. He knows how to deliver the results you want while keeping scarring to a minimum. Schedule a consultation today to discuss how he can help you achieve your rhinoplasty goals with confidence.