Understanding the Accutane Effect on Nasal Appearance

Kendall Jenner made headlines in January 2026 when she denied rumors of having a nose job, attributing the change in her nose to her use of Accutane, a treatment for severe acne. This sparked conversations about the so-called “Accutane nose job,” with other influencers like Alix Earle sharing similar experiences.

Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist, clarifies that this term might be misleading. Accutane doesn’t alter bone structure or cartilage like a surgical procedure does. Instead, it targets acne by decreasing the size of sebaceous glands and lowering oil production. “The high density of these glands in the nose means that when they become less active, the appearance of the skin improves,” Dr. Gohara notes. Dr. Chelsea Hoffman adds that reducing inflammation can also lead to a less swollen look. Interestingly, some dermatologists even prescribe Accutane post-nasal surgery to manage oil and swelling.

Nonetheless, patients should be cautious, as Accutane has various side effects and is often a last resort. Common issues include dryness and potential joint pain, while more serious concerns involve severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy, vision changes, or fluctuations in cholesterol and liver function. Dr. Kate Kleydman emphasizes the need for monitoring due to the severity of some side effects.

Carol Lee, a beauty writer, began Accutane at 22 after struggling with acne for many years. She noticed subtle shifts in her facial appearance, particularly around her nose, toward the end of her treatment. Lee shares her journey and the unexpected impacts of using the drug.

Initially, Lee hadn’t anticipated any changes to her nose. Although she sometimes harbored insecurities about it—prompted by family comments—she never seriously considered rhinoplasty. In high school, her focus shifted primarily to managing persistent acne, leading her to spend hours covering blemishes before school. At that point, she felt more at ease with her nose, but the surrounding pimples often overshadowed how she felt about her features.

For nearly a decade, Lee dealt with regular breakouts. She often feel self-conscious, particularly in social situations, and became adept at predicting when a new pimple would appear. Consistently grappling with acne made her long for a time when her skin felt clear and smooth.

By 2022, her skin behavior had intensified, presenting more severe issues than before. Breakouts covered her face, sometimes providing an unwelcome surprise upon waking up. Lee realized that over-the-counter treatments weren’t effective anymore, especially as she began a full-time job and was financially ready to pursue a more serious solution.

So, just before turning 22, she visited a dermatologist who recommended Accutane. While she had heard warnings about the medication, the doctor’s advice gave her hope for a lasting solution to her skin challenges.

Following her consultation, Lee started on Accutane, facing requirements like blood tests to monitor her health and monthly check-ins. The costs were significant but manageable with her health savings plan. Each month, she had to sign an abstinence pledge due to the risk of severe birth defects associated with the medication.

After beginning treatment, Lee observed noticeable improvements in her skin by September, although she experienced dryness and occasional discomfort. Despite some side effects, she found personal care products like lip balms to be helpful.

Reflecting on her progress pictures, Lee noticed her skin’s significant improvement after the initial adjustment period. Her dermatologist kept her on the medication until spring 2023, during which she continued to deal with dryness yet found relief in her newly clear skin.

Strangely, amidst healing, Lee didn’t realize her nose was changing until she engaged with online communities discussing similar transformations. What she found was a softer look around her nose; it appeared more refined without altering how it felt or functioned.

Interestingly, she shares that she had never intended to change her nose and would likely not recommend Accutane solely for aesthetic purposes. However, she expresses willingness to undergo the treatment again should her acne return. After three years without true breakouts, she appreciates how far she’s come, feeling grateful for her clear skin.