Hypertrophic scar in the nose

A hypertrophic scar is extra healing tissue that stays within the boundary of a cut, piercing, surgery or injury. On the outer nose it may look red, firm or raised. Inside the nostril, swelling or a thickened area can feel obstructive and may be mistaken for infection or another growth. Nasal tissue is easily irritated, so touching, squeezing or inserting products without advice can prolong inflammation.

A clinician will check whether the skin is fully healed, whether the bump is outside or inside the nostril, and whether airflow is affected. Steroid injections may reduce a thick scar; read Steroid Injection Into The Skin. Fractional laser treatment can be considered for selected surface changes; read Fractional Laser Treatment. Surgical Excision or Scar Revision Surgery may be suitable when tissue is persistent or affects function, but nasal anatomy makes specialist planning particularly important. Keep the area clean as directed and do not remove a crust by force.

Seek prompt care if the nasal area develops spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, severe pain or rapidly increasing swelling. Arrange assessment sooner if the scar causes new breathing difficulty, repeated bleeding or a blocked nostril. Urgent help is appropriate for major breathing difficulty or swelling of the face.

Ask whether the tissue is a scar, an infection or another lesion; whether it is confined to the wound; and whether treatment could affect airflow or the nasal lining. Clarify who will perform the procedure, what aftercare involves and how recurrence will be monitored.