Reconstructive Techniques

It depends upon the scar. If a scar is relatively new (less than 1 year old), then I would recommend conservative measures such as silicone-based scar medication, sunscreen, and time to allow the scar to fully heal. There are several types of scar revision techniques available, from skin resurfacing to surgery. Skin resurfacing options include intense pulse light (to minimize pigmentation), laser resurfacing, and/or dermabrasion. Surgery options include a wide variety of techniques such as direct excision, z plasty, w plasty, geometric broken line closure. Finally, injections with steriod and/or 5-fluorouracil have proven beneficial. While there is not one specific "best" scar revision technique for children, there are several options available and I discuss all these options in the context of the child's scar as well as his or her age.

Rhinoplasty refers to surgery to change the appearance of the nose. Septoplasty and repair of septal perforation can be performed at the same time as a rhinoplasty.

The prevalence of skin cancer is rising. Patients with biopsy-proven skin cancer on the face should consider not only removal of the skin cancer but also reconstruction of the subsequent defect. As a facial plastic surgeon, I perform a variety of reconstructive techniques of nasal skin cancers. If you have a "gouge" in your nose, you may benefit from one of these reconstructive procedures to improve the overall appearance of the nose. The reconstructive technique I would recommend depends upon the location of the "gouge".