Prior to Plastic Surgery…Stop Smoking!

We all know that smoking is a habit that should not be started because of the negative effects that it can have on a person’s health. Any time an individual desires plastic surgery, it is important that they stop smoking at least two to four weeks before their procedure; the exact amount of time depends on the specific procedure.

Changes in Circulation

Smoking inhibits the absorption of oxygen in the blood by elevating the levels of toxic carbon monoxide. At the same time, the nicotine that is absorbed causes arteries to constrict and blocks the full amount of blood that is supposed to circulate to tissues and organs. This constriction deprives the body of oxygen and makes it work less efficiently, which can lead to many negative consequences, including:

∙ Prolonged wound healing time

∙ Wound separation

∙ Gangrene of the skin (large amounts of dead skin)

One of the most disastrous complications resulting from smoking before and after surgery is nipple and areola necrosis (dead tissue) after a breast lift or reduction.

Anesthesia Complications

Nicotine from cigarettes interferes with the anesthesia during surgery, which can have an adverse effect on not only a patient’s surgery, but their life as well. In the most extreme cases, patients can suffer the following during or after treatment:

∙ Heart attack

∙ Stroke

∙ Pneumonia

∙ Death

Premature Aging

Smoking contributes to the development of wrinkles and speeds up the aging process. A patient who undergoes a plastic surgery procedure should permanently give up smoking in order to keep the anti-aging benefits that the procedure provides.

Giving up smoking is one of the hardest habits to break, but it is necessary for an individual to discontinue use in order to ensure a safe and effective procedure.

At my Arizona practice, I fully inform and prepare my patients before surgery to ensure that they obtain the most beneficial results. To schedule a consultation, please call (480) 890-0600 today.