Tazorac (Retin-A) Ok To Use Prior to Face/necklift?

Question

I've used Tazorac (Retin-A) 0.1% nightly on my face/neck for 20+ years. How long does it need to be discontinued prior to a face/necklift?

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would stop using Retin-A for 2 weeks before face/neck lift. I would recommend mentioning to your plastic surgeon all your medications that you take or apply on your face. I hope this helps!

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

If you have been on Retin A for multiple years, then in my practice I would allow you to use it up to the time of surgery, but not afterwards until such time that I feel you are completely healed

Pamela B. Rosen, MD · Answer

Retinoids such as Retin-A, Tazarac, Renova, etc, are an important part of any anti-aging skin care regime. In fact, if you are going to have a laser skin resurfacing procedure or a chemical peel, prior use of these products can actually speed and improve your healing process. Due to their irritant side effects, however, it is a good idea to stop them at least a week or two before facelift surgery. Resume use only after several weeks, as skin may be temporarily more sensitive post-operatively. If you have not used them in the past, it is better to wait until after the surgery has fully healed before trying any new skin care regimen. If any type of resurfacing procedure is done, use of retinoids should not be attempted until all redness has completely resolved.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

I would recommend stopping at least two weeks prior to surgery.  After the facelift, I would encourage you to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions.  Of course, there is the question of whether it would be necessary or if you would be better served with use of small amounts of filler to address any contour issues.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

A month or two should be sufficient. Retin A ia an irritant, to the skin but the effects should be diminished after a couple of months. Might consider not re-starting Retin A after the Face Lift for a couple of months as well. You should ask your Face Lift Surgeon for his/her specific instructions regarding this matter.

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

If your skin is used to Retin A I would say it is fine to use it but quit about 1 week before the facelift and wait 6 weeks after to restart it. Of course if you trust your doctor to do your facelift you should be asking this question of him and following his recommendations.

Tazorac (Retin-A) Ok To Use Prior to Face/necklift?

Answers (6)

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