Can I take steroid injections/oral meds to thin my nasal skin and improve my skin overall?

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well.. based in you r question its recommended to consultate in person with your plastic surgeon about the theme.

The steroids used post rhinoplasty help take down swelling. They are anti-inflammatory and are very powerful. They should only be used by or under the direction of your treating surgeon. Oral steroids may be prescribed for use after nasal surgery. It takes down global swelling in the nose and it's taken for a short period of time. Injectable steroids like kenalog are used in a dilute solution, only by the surgeon and usually are done as a series,1 to 3 injections. Complications can result from their use like over correction, loss of skin and infection. Talk to your present surgeon before using this powerful chemical.

Hello and thank you for your question. Steroids are not prescribed as a preparation for a rhinoplasty, but they can be useful to reduce swelling and bruising after your procedure. Because of the powerful nature of this medication, it must be administered by your board-certified facial plastic surgeon and is most often given via injection. If you have your surgery performed by a qualified board-certified facial plastic surgeon with ample experience performing rhinoplasties, you should be able to get your desired result without undertaking any pre-treatment regimen. Schedule a full exam with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon for more information. Good luck!  - Elbert T. Cheng, MD

Kenalog is not useful for controlled thinning of nasal skin. You are more likely to have uneven atrophy of the dermis resulting in changes in both the coloration and texture of the skin. Some patients get improved skin thinning with low-dose accutane regimens. This helps shrink the pores and thins the skin evenly due to the sebaceous (oily) nature of the skin. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
IG: @drjohnsonlee

Improving skin quality, including thickness and texture before a rhinoplasty procedure can be very beneficial because the envelope of thick skin can mask the underlying fine contour achieved with surgery. Professional skin care with facials and the application of appropriate products can enhance the rhinoplasty results. Steroids, injected or taken by mouth, are not helpful before surgery.

Dear Arika, Patients do not use Kenalog for a pre-treatment for rhinoplasty or to thin the skin. Some surgeons like myself prescribe a low dose steroid package (Medrol Dose Pack) to be started the day after surgery that helps reduce swelling and bruising. Every surgeon has their own protocol and this will also include post operative injections of steroids to the nose. Speak directly with your surgeon. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.