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Facial Plast Surg
DOI: 10.1055/a-2697-3029
Original Research

The Role of Oral Isotretinoin in Thick Skin Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review

Authors

  • Hao Meng Yip 

    1   Department of ENT, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom

  • Isabel Fernandez-Carrera

    1   Department of ENT, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom

  • Sunil Chopra

    2   The London Dermatology Centre, Wimpole Street, London, United Kingdom

  • Santdeep Paun

    1   Department of ENT, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract

Introduction

Thick skin poses a challenge in rhinoplasty, often resulting in an undefined tip and supratip deformities.

Objectives and Hypotheses

This study evaluates oral isotretinoin as an adjuvant treatment for thick-skinned rhinoplasty patients.

Study Design

This is a systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Methods

Two independent investigators performed a comprehensive literature search to identify studies that assessed perioperative oral isotretinoin treatment in thick skin rhinoplasty patients. Key outcome measures include skin thickness reduction, cosmetic surgical outcomes, and postoperative patient satisfaction.

Results

Five studies met the study inclusion criteria. Their findings demonstrated that oral isotretinoin effectively reduces skin thickness and improves cosmetic outcomes and satisfaction up to 6 months postoperatively, with no major complications reported.

Conclusion

Although evidence is limited, oral isotretinoin shows promise in enhancing short-term rhinoplasty outcomes for thick-skinned patients. Further, high-quality trials are needed to confirm these results and develop standardized treatment protocols.

Keywords

isotretinoin - accutane - roaccutane - rhinoplasty - septorhinoplasty

Contributors' Statement

All the authors contributed to the data collection, synthesis of results, and completion of the review. H.M.Y. wrote the first draft of the article. I.F-C. and S.P. were involved in study design, editing, and supervision of this research project. All authors reviewed the article prior to publication.




Publication History

Received: 25 July 2025

Accepted: 06 September 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
08 September 2025

Article published online:
17 September 2025

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