Ask a doctor

Can I Use Retin-a on Fresh Liposuction Scars?

I just had my stitches taken out for a liposuction procedure. I currently use retin-a .04% micro for acne scars on my face with good results. I've read on here that retin-a works on scars but didn't see anything about recent, day old scars. thanks

Doctor Answers 4

Retin A on Fresh Scars

September 5th, 2014
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}
I recommend you use another product on these new scars. You can try scar treatments, such as silicone cream or sheeting. These help improve the appearance of the scar.  

Web reference: https://www.edelsteincosmetic.com/

Jerome Edelstein, MD

Retin-A for scars?

October 16th, 2012
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

If your liposuction incisions are still pretty new, often they will be red and will settle down on their own.  If you have concerns, as your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD

Steven Wallach, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
4.1 out of 5 stars 23 reviews

Retin A not the choice for liposuction scars

October 16th, 2012
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

You use the retin A for acne, though not to improve the existing scars in the cheeks. Topical tretinoin (retin A) is not a scar cream, though there are others on the market that are. Let your liposuction scars heal for four weeks, and then use Mederma or other proven products you can find.

Web reference: http://www.peterejohnsonmd.com/liposuction

Peter E. Johnson, MD

Peter E. Johnson, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
4.1 out of 5 stars 39 reviews

Retin-A for Liposuction Scars

February 23rd, 2013
{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

  I would not advise using Retin-A on recent liposuction scars that have just had sutures removed.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Web reference: http://www.hughesplasticsurgery.com

Kenneth B. Hughes, MD

Kenneth B. Hughes, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 441 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.