Can I use a safety pin to pop a zit near my nose before my rhinoplasty?

Question

I used to pop zits with a safety pin before my rhinoplasty. I now have recently developed a very painful zit right where I used to get them before and am wondering if I can use the same method as I used to to get rid of them.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

I would advise that you do NOT do that, especially given that it is unsterile. All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. I would definitely advise you against doing such thing. It is best to consult with your board certified plastic surgeon that would be performing your rhinoplasty. Good luck.

David Magilke, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Using an unsterile safety pin to pop a zit on your nose before nasal surgery is not advised.  Even with the good blood supply to the skin on the nose, you can develop an infection that can affect your surgical result.  The recurrent nature of the "zit" also is concerning for a cyst - that might be best removed before surgery?  If you have surgery scheduled,  I would call your doctor and have him/her advise you on treatment so that you can get the best surgical outcome possible.  Good luck.

Inessa Fishman, MD · Answer

I do not recommend picking and manipulating any skin lesions, as this can introduce infection or drive it deeper into the tissues around the pimple.  In your situation, the best thing to do is touch base with your rhinoplasty surgeon, especially if your nose surgery is within the next 2 weeks.  A small injection of steroids or an antibiotic course may be prudent to treat the pimple and avoid compromising or delaying your surgery.  Furthermore, a pimple which recurs in the same location may represent a cyst, which would be better served by antibiotic treatment and excision.  Seek the advice of your surgeon, and good luck.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

No I would not recommend it.  I recommended shoe consult your plastic surgeon for an appropriate treatment.It is crucial that do not have a white head or comedone at time of a rhinoplasty.

Can I use a safety pin to pop a zit near my nose before my rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)