How soon can I get breast augmentation after stopping isotretinoin?

Question

I have recently stopped taking isotretinoin after hearing from my PS that it will delay wound healing. I read it up and saw that it may cause keloid too. I had taken 20mg daily for 4 months. How soon can I get breast augmentation after stopping the medicine?

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question. 
I would recommend waiting 12 months from your last dose before your breast augmentation surgery. 
This will ensure that you have optimized your chances of proper wound healing and minimize the risk of keloid formation. 
Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon and discuss all of your medical/surgical history including the medications you take so that your surgeon can help you get the best possible results. 
I hope this helps. Best of luck!

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Isoretinoin is believed to lead to delayed healing or Keloid scarring post-operatively if use is not discontinued prior. Most surgeons will recommend a 6-12 month delay.That being said, this is being challenged with recent studies suggesting that the risk is not as great as has been traditionally believed. A review of the literature published in JAMA 2017 suggested that the risk remained for mechanical dermabrasion, fully ablative laser procedures. However, many procedures once believed to be too risky have been found to be safer than originally thought including manual dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, fractional ablative and fractional nonablative procedures, chemical peels, laser hair removal, or cutaneous surgery. More clinical trials specifically looking at these are underway.With regards to your specific question, an augmentation is technically a cutaneous surgery. There are still warnings regarding muscle flap surgery, however, this would not necessarily apply to augmentation surgery. All of this being said, in my practice I still recommend a delay for patients on Accutane.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically you will want to wait 6 to 12 months after stopping isotretinoin before proceeding with elective plastic surgery, though opinions will vary by surgeon.  I encourage you to discuss all medications you take including prescription, over the counter, and supplements with your surgeon for your safety and best result.

How soon can I get breast augmentation after stopping isotretinoin?

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How soon can I get breast augmentation after stopping isotretinoin?

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