Question:
I am 18 years old and have bad acne. Should I discontinue use of my topical medicine before having a nose job? If so, when can I resume my treatment after the surgery?
Answer:
Certain topical medications such as Differin and Retin A can cause skin irritation and inflammation. These can be used on the face before and after a rhinoplasty as long as they are not applied to the nose itself. By using these topical medications directly on the nose, you may prolong wound healing. By two to three weeks after surgery, your incisions will be healed although swelling will still be present in the nasal tissues. By this time it may be appropriate to resume treatment depending on how well you are healing. Consult with your surgeon about this issue.