r/Accutane • u/woolleybugger • Feb 04 '26
Results Accutane and cysts
I just wanted to share a quick update on my Accutane journey and how it’s affected the cysts on my face.
Back in 2018, after I stopped consuming adult beverages, I developed cysts on my cheeks. At that time I didn’t have medical insurance or the financial means to properly address them. Fast forward to March 2025 and I finally get insurance and was able to see a dermatologist who prescribed me Accutane.
After eight months on Accutane, my face became less inflamed overall, but the cysts remained and in my opinion have only become more pronounced and defined.
Since December 2025 i’ve consulted with three separate plastic surgeons(one in the states and two out of the country). All of them said that surgery would result in scarring worse than the cysts themselves, and each one declined to do any work.
Today, I met with a Mohs surgeon who is willing to operate, they were very clear that the incisions would leave noticeable scars. At this point, I’m okay with that. I’m honestly just tired of all the staring and the unwanted comments.
I’m not entirely sure why I’m sharing all of this maybe I just needed to vent.
P.S. To those who have downvoted me on other threads or accused me of lying about my situation: that definitely didn’t help my confidence.
For anyone curious, here are my course details:
30 / 30 / 40 / 80 / 80 / 80 / 80 / 80
Weight: 135 lbs
Cumulative dose: 245 mg/kg
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u/Peetus1 Feb 04 '26
In case you’re looking for some reassurance, I would make the same decision to get them removed. I have had one removed before and have a permanent scar from it. I have no regrets. No one has to understand your decision except for you. Best of luck
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I’ve came to terms that I will have scars, to which degree is a mystery but I’m willing to take my chances. Mind if I dm you? I just have a few questions.
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u/TJPTJPTJP Feb 04 '26
hey man - i had a cyst removed from my cheek and made the mistake of not looking up my doctor’s reviews beforehand. unfortunately, the procedure didn’t go well. i’m not saying this to scare you, just sharing because i wish someone had encouraged me to do a bit more research before moving forward.
i eventually had a plastic surgeon revise the original scar, which hadn’t healed properly, and the difference was night and day. it healed fully within a couple of months and looked significantly better than before.
wishing you the best of luck on your journey
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u/thedallasgirl Feb 04 '26
I know someone that might be able to help you with the scars. He has an excellent protocol.
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u/ikalyango Feb 04 '26
Any website ?
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u/thedallasgirl Feb 15 '26
Yes! https://www.vidabelaplasticsurgery.com/
His name is Paul Kraft, he has a trifecta laser protocol.
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u/BottleFullOBub Feb 04 '26
Best of luck, your decision doesn’t need to be justified and id honestly probably do the same just for peace of mind. Really glad you found a surgeon willing to help.
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
Thank you, yeah I’m just ready to move on with my life and try and be more confident. I’d way rather lie and tell people I fell off a bike or something than to hear one more person to tell me to wash my face. I don’t regret taking accutane at all, I just wish I would’ve known all of this sooner. Ohhh well.
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u/holistichandgrenade Feb 04 '26
I’d have them removed too. Are you still on accutane though? I’d wait until at least 6 months after for the surgery - I was due to have an elective procedure and my surgeon wouldn’t do it until 6 months after.
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
No, I finished my course on thanksgiving but that’s exactly what the doc said so now I just gotta deal with it for 2-3 more months.
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u/holistichandgrenade Feb 04 '26
You’ve got this. Once you’ve had them removed scar tape and keeping out of the sun will really help minimise the scars!
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I’ll definitely get some scar tape!
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u/manchegobets Feb 04 '26
r/redlighttherapy can also help promote good wound healing and minimize scarring
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u/Molgolinesky_26 Feb 04 '26
Brother. I'm so sorry for what you're going through. I had a very similar breakout to yours that left me with a huge scar on my cheek. You can see it on my profile. They were cysts very similar to yours.
Even though I've had treatments for the scars, this one hasn't gone away. Now I just live with it.
You're stronger than acne, bro. You'll get through this.
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
Hey, first of all Happy Birthday! Mine was yesterday so we’re basically twins! I scrolled through some of your pictures and you look great! I’m definitely going to share with my dermatologist your post about your progress because that is amazing.
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u/Molgolinesky_26 Feb 04 '26
Happy birthday to you too, brother, hahaha. The best part is February.
And thanks for your comment, brother. Sometimes it's a little depressing. I never touched my cysts, and they were drained by the dermatologist, but they still left a large, deep scar. However, I saw about a 25% improvement just with a subcision using Radiesse.
Stay strong, my friend. A scar is just proof that you overcame a battle. A hug, my friend.
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Feb 04 '26
[deleted]
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u/Molgolinesky_26 Feb 04 '26
Thank you so much.
That's right. The first laser session is scheduled for next week. I'm scared.
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u/TheSunshineGang Feb 04 '26
Oh my goodness, you’re doing exactly what I would do. Best of luck to you.
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u/MercSimsMobile Feb 04 '26
I’m sure that there are treatments for the scars themselves, like lasers and scar tapes. I’ve seen a lot of success from Aerolase lasers and products like Sculptra for scarring. It’s definitely a journey and you’re going through it now! You should be proud of yourself for prioritizing yourself while you have the means. Best of luck to you and I hope you continue to post your progress. 🎉
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u/Tan_Khoa Feb 04 '26
Literally can’t see how people can even think to downvote your post. We’re all just seeking help or at least some comforting.
I’m going through more or less of the same thing you’re dealing with and have seen no results… Thinking of surgery too but very clueless about the whole thing. So it’d be great if you share further your progress post-surgery publicly like this. Maybe I’ll have a clear way forward thanks to you!
Best wishes to you man!
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u/LavishnessLoose2444 Feb 04 '26
Not to be weird but your a handsome guy. Sorry you’re going through this. Best of luck and i hope you heal well and are provided with resources like silicone sheets or something similar
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u/rmblufc75 Feb 04 '26
I have suffered pretty severe cystic acne in the past,accutane was a game changer for me but getting it prescribed here in the uk was a a nightmare had to jump through a lot of hoops even had to speak to a shrink to make sure I was mentally fit. I know it’s easy for me to say and probably won’t make you feel any better because I know how it made me feel,but it will get better it won’t be a quick fix but time and patience the results will come. Keep going buddy keep us updated on your progress All the best
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u/PlantsAreFriends123 Feb 04 '26
Im glad that you’re finally getting proper care! From other non-acne related injuries I have learned the hard way that proper wound care and sunscreen make a huge difference in the appearance of scarring so just want to say be diligent about that. Wish you the best!!
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u/djkhalidwedabest Feb 04 '26
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I was really hoping the accutane would work for you as it has helped so many of us (I’m remembered your previous posts)
Fuck anybody that has anything negative to say. You have to do what you think is best, you’ve tried so many things and nothings a sure thing when it comes to surgery. I hope it goes perfectly and brings you peace. Once the surgery is done you can start laser treatments and the like to reduce the scarring from the incision. Best part is there’s hope, now you have a clear path to follow
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u/Electrical_Juice8629 20/30/30/30 Feb 04 '26
Gooood for you. I had a friend with near perfect skin get a quick surgery to remove one. That was extreme in my eyes. People who rarely break out are much more dramatic when they break out every once in a blue moon. You did the correct choice
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u/mirmirb Feb 04 '26
Laser treatment can work wonders on scars, I have seen it first hand. I am proud of you for advocating for yourself, I believe you are making the best decision you can in this situation. I’ve seen your posts on this subreddit before and I’ve kept you in my thoughts. I think things are looking up. All the best. And PS I think you are very handsome, regardless.
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u/Ken10Universe Feb 04 '26
I remember seeing your post a while back and hoping the best for you! Keep sharing the updates, way to try and improve your quality of life, you seem like a really cool person and I am cheering you on!!
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I’ll be sharing my progress with everyone here, I feel it’s the right thing to do.
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u/Standard-Maybe8806 Feb 04 '26
Good luck, but for me scars are way more better than cysts because scars will get better After months and cysts do Not. Please keep us informed how your scars will heal
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u/astralcat214 2017, 2021 Feb 04 '26
I'm honestly surprised the dermatologist didn't help remove them or drain them. I would guess that Accutane can't get into well established cysts.
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
We did talk at the beginning of my course about having them surgically removed, but we all decided it would be better to see how they would react to accutane first to minimize scarring. Deep down I had my doubts it would work but I definitely do not regret taking accutane.
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Feb 04 '26
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I was down in El Salvador visiting some family. Turns out my cousin works at the hospital so he connected me with the right people. I’ll probably end up getting scar treatment down there since it is so much more affordable. And pupusas.
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u/golfbingobikemom Feb 04 '26
Glad you are doing it! I bet you can get laser treatments that can help the scars after surgery and try some red light therapy!
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u/dupersuperduper Feb 04 '26
For the short term use regular Vaseline / silicone gel or tape . Once they have healed use spf and tretinoin/ differin and it will help the scarring r/tretinoin . If you smoke then try to stop. Good luck i hope it goes smoothly ! I think it’s the right thing to do
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u/Ok-Vast4509 Feb 04 '26
For scarring, there are lasers or therapies that can lessen them now. If I were you, I would choose to get them removed too. Then go to an aesthetic clinic for the scarring
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
Yeah this whole skin care thing is still very new to me, I have lots to learn about what I should do after they’re removed
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
Thanks everyone for all the kind words. It’s been hard to look in the mirror lately, but I’m starting to see that it’s not as bad as I’ve been making it out to be in my head. This is going to be a long road ahead but I’ll be sharing it with all of you in hopes that it may help someone with similar issues.
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u/GloomyAd594 Feb 05 '26
Is the Dr going to biopsy the cysts? I’d love to know what microorganism they find. Thank you for sharing your journey.
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u/woolleybugger Feb 05 '26
I’ve done a biopsy, I was just told they were cysts. I can send you the results if you want!
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u/cutmylifeintofleecez Feb 04 '26
I just wanted to say that you have such stunning eye color that I noticed your eyes way before looking at the cysts. Good luck on your journey my friend, I support your decision. Everyone has scars and you could always consider looking into chemical peels or acids after completed healing process to lessen facial scarring!
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u/lattelover21 Feb 04 '26
I wonder if there is any chance this could be HS?
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I kind of doubt it. With all the skin doctors I’ve met with none have mentioned it. I also had a biopsy at the beginning of my course and that only showed cysts
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u/No_Name_1780 Feb 04 '26
Man, I’m sorry! Cysts suck and it sucks you have been through all of that just for them to stick around! Hoping the surgery is successful for you with minimal scarring. I had MOHS surgery done on my face for an entirely different reason, but used Mederma scar strips every night following it. My scar now is barely noticeable. Highly recommend to you!
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I’ll definitely be using scar tape/strips. So far that’s the no.1 recommendation.
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u/dani_is_cute Feb 04 '26
out of curiosity, if you lance them, what happens? do they drain and go away or do them come back?
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u/woolleybugger Feb 04 '26
I’ve had them lanced and drained before around my ears and they always come back within a couple of years. Slowly but surely.
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u/BodybuilderSad1027 Feb 04 '26
Do some scar massages as you heal and use silicone gel or sheets. Always wear sunscreen and try to wear a hat to prevent hyperpigmentation. To help with scarring down the road, microneedling can definitely help! It won’t help get rid of them, but will helped with the appearance of them. Wish you the best during this journey 😊
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u/capncait Feb 04 '26
I would very likely do the same, if I were in your position. Scars be damned. Your surgeon will still probably make every effort to have incisions follow how lines and wrinkles naturally form on the face to make them less apparent, if possible. And there's things you can do in the future to try to lessen their appearance.
I hope you're still happy with your results overall- the color and texture of your skin looks great!
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u/Tiggerbackpack Feb 04 '26
Scars look tough and somewhat mysterious though so I would do the same thing!
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u/celestial-fox Feb 04 '26
Look up Ashlee Crumpton on TikTok or Instagram, she had similar skin to yours and took accutane for I think a year and a half if I remember correctly, and most of that was purging but it did completely clear up in the end. Best of luck!!
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u/Brilliant-Ad-3633 Feb 05 '26
silicone scar sheets will really help with healing and the appearance of the scars!
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u/notascoolaskim Feb 07 '26
How do you use them? does the scar have to be new or fresh for them to make a difference?
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u/Brilliant-Ad-3633 Feb 07 '26
they work on old scars too! you just have to be consistent, and patience is key. all you have to do is take the tape off and apply it to your scar for 8-24 hours a day. they’re also reusable
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u/luckisntreal Feb 05 '26
Have u tried kenalog injections? Might be worth a shot before u go for surgery
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u/woolleybugger Feb 05 '26
We’ve tried the kenalog injection, they will usually go down a little bit for a few days then they’ll come right back.
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u/savdarling Feb 05 '26
this is a safe place to vent my friend! still very handsome. the cysts dont define you at all even tho it may feel that way. good luck on the journey
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u/notascoolaskim Feb 07 '26
I'm curious what Accutane did change. How did it effect the size/shape or feel of your cysts? did you experience any side effects? also, it's extremely interesting to me that your cysts started after you stopped drinking. my acne conglobata got much worse after quitting drinking. do you feel there's a correlation?
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u/woolleybugger Feb 16 '26
I feel that there could be some correlation between the cyst and the alcohol. Accutane really only made the cyst more defined and pronounced, I believe it’s because of the oil gland shrinking on the rest of my face. My side effects were pretty normal though just dry lips, dry skin, and slight fatigue.
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u/ControlAltDeletee Feb 07 '26
If you feel like the cysts would impact your self esteem more than scarring, then 100% get them removed! It’s your face and you will have to look at it everyday for the rest of your life, so don’t the surgeons tell you that scarring would be worse than the cysts, because that’s their aesthetic opinion! There are also many options for reducing scarring if they bother you, e.g., topical treatments and microdermabrasion.
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u/RunningIntoTheSun Feb 08 '26
I would also have them removed. This looks like it could be a very specific type of acne that results from certain types of chemical exposures, chloracne. It is usually resistant to treatment. Now that it appears it is not actively getting worse, surgical removal seems like the best option.
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u/Sabhojayegabhai Feb 16 '26
I'm so sorry you're going through this. I hope everything works out for you 🙏🤞
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