Should I start using Accutane before or after rhinoplasty?

Question

I was hoping to have a rhinoplasty procedure done in the fall, I'm thinking for an alar base reduction but I've not had a consultation. The problem is, I have an ethnic nose with thick, oily nasal skin. As of right now, I am using Differin but I was wondering if using Accutane would thin out my skin before surgery to help my doctor achieve the best results. For rhinoplasty surgery in my case, would it be more beneficial to start using Accutane before or after my rhinoplasty?

Rod J. Rohrich, MD · Answer

In general, I do not like to perform chemical peel and facial resurfacing on patients that have been on Accutane electively for at least 6 months and for over a year especially as this can cause excessive scarring. I would wait at least 3-6 months for operative procedures as this can impair wound healing significantly.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi, 

	Using Accutane before your surgery may help thin your skin and decrease the oiliness.  You must wait at least 6 to 12 months after discontinuing your Accutane before having surgery.

	Good luck and be well.

	Dr. P

William Portuese, MD · Answer

While Accutane may indeed lower the oiliness of the skin, it will not thin the dermis. The indication for Accutane is for control of severe acne and it should be used only for that purpose. It is probably best to start your Accutane after the rhinoplasty procedure.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The use of accutane and having any surgery is really contraindicated until the Accutane is stopped. Usually you have to wait 6 months to 1 year after ceasing use of Accutane. It can impair wound healing.

Steven Schuster, MD, FACS · Answer

Unless we are looking at an emergency trauma type operation I would recommend waiting at least 6 months and probably a year after being off Accutane. For things like laser or dermabrasion you may even want to wait 18 months to allow the sebaceous glands to return to normal. While it is great for acne it is bad for wound healing. Don't go on accutane before a rhinoplasty especially if you are having an alar base resection.

Should I start using Accutane before or after rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)