Can tretinoin cream help the skin to keep it's elasticity, after it is 'stretched' from swelling facial fat transfer?

Question

I've had fat transfer done, and I am a bit swollen (5days po). Will it help my skin if I use tretinoine cream, I am scared that from the swelling from the fat transfer, my skin will be 'pulled' to much, and less firm, after the swelling will go down. I thought maybe tretinoine cream helps regenerate, or will it harm the fat graft?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with your Doctor about their preferred aftercare protocol following fat transfer. Swelling can last 3-6 months after your procedure. I recommend prp and/or Sculptra to help improve final results. Icing the area, predisone, ibuoprofen and venus legacy treatments can help reduce swelling. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jessica Kulak, MD · Answer

It is very common to have significant swelling after fat transfer, which can last several weeks to months.  Swelling doesn't typically stretch the skin or alter the skin quality.   Tretinoin cream (retin A)  is a great for its anti-aging effects of maintaining skin quality and is important product to have in your skin care regimen.  When first using Tretinoin cream it common to have significant irritation, redness and peeling skin.  You should probably wait until your inital swelling and bruising resolves to start any new skin products so that you don't cause more swelling or irritation to your skin or cause confusion if you have a reaction.  It would be best to discuss this with your surgeon and have a skin care plan rather than just adding in products randomly.

Can tretinoin cream help the skin to keep it's elasticity, after it is 'stretched' from swelling facial fat transfer?

Answers (2)