scars on nose from acne

Hi. I've had pimples in the past that left really noticeable scars.  I have patches of pink skin where I had those pimples. The worst problem is that they left holes on my nose. I have one on the tip and two right next to each other on he upper left tip, which is also dented from the pimple. One of those two holes are the size of two pores combined.  For some strange reason, after my pimple went away, the skin around there was a little sore and two pores swelled.  After the skin got a scab and peeled off, the two pores became one. That's where one from the upper left came from. I spend an hr. each day just to cover it up so it won't be as noticeable.  But it is becoming a really big problem because I am late for work, school, and social activities very often.  I can't calculate how long it takes me everyday.  Some days my skin just seem worst and it would take longer (maybe even two hrs).  I am in desperate need of help.  I don't know what kind of surgery I need to have or who to ask.  So I am hoping that you may be able to help me.  It would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

The tip of the nose is very unforgiving.  Even minor trauma and inflammation can leave pits and scars.  Treatment is very difficult, because any procedure like laser might make the scars deeper.  On the other hand, if you leave the areas alone, they may fill in at least in part over a period of months.

I am concerned that you are spending as much time as you say covering up these spots.  You sound as though you have become obsessed with these imperfections to the point where your normal life is being interfered with.  This is to say the least not healthy.

My suggestions are:

First, leave the spots alone except to wasn and cover them--absolutely no picking or rubbing.
2.  See a dermatologist for diagnosis and suggestions for possible treatment, if any.
3.  Consider consulting a psychologist or counselor about your worries.  Since you may have to live with some or all of these indentations, you are going to ned to come to terms with that.

Please get the help you need.  Don't wait.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff