Fractional Photothermolysis of a Replanted Nose: A Case Report

ABSTRACT

Although several cases of successful reconstruction of complete nasal amputations have been reported, reconstruction of a traumatic amputated nose remains a challenge both aesthetically and functionally. Even if replantation of the nasal tip is successful, the scar on the nose may develop an irregular appearance, an ill-fitting contour, a trap door deformity, or discoloration. In the predominant nasal tip, these suboptimal results are very stressful for patient. There are no guidelines for both management and postoperative care of traumatic nasal amputation. At the completion of laser scar revision after successful replantation, we present an excellent aesthetic outcome using the 1,550-nm fractional erbium-glass laser (MOSAIC(R), Lutronic Co. Ltd, Seoul, Korea). Based on our experience, a microvascular replantation followed by fractional non-ablative laser therapy was not harmful and was available to maximize the aesthetic outcomes.