Accutane and facelift: which one should I do first?

Question

If I want to do Accutane and I want a facelift, which do you recommend first, and how many months in between?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

you can do both at the same time there is no affect of accutane on facelifts in my opionion or any surgery for that matter. I would however avoid an ABLATIVE laser during the treatment unless you stop the accutane a week or two before and restart after peeling. pretreat with cosmelan/enlighten peels, morpheus 8, and properskincare to get your skin ready for treatment (see link).  Best, Dr. Emer.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

It is best to do the facelift first followed by the accutane as accutane can affect skin healing. The months duration will depend on what dose of accutane you are planning to use however I would generally recommend waiting a minimum of 3 to 6 months before beginning treatment.

Johnson C. Lee, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your interesting question.   I guess the answer depends on which is a higher priority to you.  I wouldn't get a facelift while taking accutane, but you certainly can start the accutane within a month after a facelift, if your plastic surgeon is ok with that.  On the other hand, you also might want to do the accutane first and get all your acne cleared up before embarking on surgery.  Please see an expert for their in-person advice so they can evaluate your face and expectations.  Best of luck!

Accutane and facelift: which one should I do first?

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Accutane and facelift: which one should I do first?

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.