Tag Archive for: plastic surgery and smoking

Why Do I Have to Quit Smoking for Plastic Surgery?

Don’t worry. You’re human like the rest of us. It’s completely natural to picture the end result of plastic surgery more than the process. But without a healthy healing process, the end result may not be what you hoped for. That’s why quitting smoking, at least temporarily, is essential. The addictive ingredient in cigarettes–nicotine–can have detrimental effects on the body and can slow the healing process or even be life threatening post-surgery. Here’s what you need to know when considering a smoking-cessation plan for plastic surgery.

Nicotine Constricts the Blood Vessels

Certain surgery procedures can be even more affected by nicotine than others. For example, when getting a tummy tuck, surgeons must cut a portion of the blood supply from some tissue to move it from its original location to another for improving function, appearance, or sometimes both. Nicotine shrinks blood vessels, however, which limits the flow of blood to the area. This is counterproductive as it can cause destruction and death of the tissue as well as necrosis in some cases.

More Effects of Nicotine

The effects of nicotine don’t stop with blood flow restrictions. In addition to putting nicotine users at risk of oxygen shortage in the body, patients could also experience blood clots, and are at a much higher risk of developing an infection as well.

Smoking Cessation Timeline

Dr. Jane Rowley recommends her Lubbock plastic surgery patients stop all nicotine products (not just cigarettes) for six weeks before surgery and two to three weeks after to ensure they are getting the proper blood flow and oxygen needed to heal properly.

It may not be easy, but it’s worth it. If a nicotine-using patient is committed to stopping use for the required amount of time before and after surgery, then she will more likely see desirable results. Dr. Jane Rowley’s recommendations come from extensive medical training and board certification, as well as over two decades of medical practice, making her, the most experienced plastic surgeon in Lubbock. Call today for your no-obligation consultation to discuss your desired result and learn about the expert care you can expect from Rowley Plastic Surgery.

Lubbock Plastic Surgery Patients and Smoking

The effects of smoking on our lungs and the risks of cancer through tobacco and secondhand smoke exposure are fairly well-known and understood. But the dangers of smoking go beyond our lungs. Smoking introduces nicotine and carbon monoxide to the body which can cause blood vessels to restrict and can impact our tissue, both of which limit the flow of oxygen throughout our body. Oxygen is vital to the healing process, so getting insufficient oxygen during any healing period can result in complications and issues after surgery. Ultimately, patients who smoke can experience longer healing times and worsened scars. It is important for people planning to undergo plastic surgery to quit smoking well before scheduling a surgical procedure with our office in Lubbock. Plastic surgery patients are encouraged to stop smoking at least a few weeks before their scheduled surgery.

 

The Effects of Smoking

 

  • Smoking can lead to infections in the surgical wound. Smokers have higher rates of post-op infections.
  • Tobacco use can slow the healing process. Not only does this extend the recovery time, but it can also lead to issues in scarring.
  • Smoking introduces complications to circulation throughout the body leading to a deterioration of the skin during or after surgery.

 

Don’t Want to Quit?

 

The effects from smoking can cause serious complications. Some plastic surgeons will refuse scheduling procedures with people who smoke to avoid these risks. Other doctors will set strict parameters requiring patients to stop smoking for a specific amount of time before the surgery. These risks and restrictions may change depending on the procedure.

 

Quit Anyway

 

For patients in Lubbock, plastic surgery safety is of utmost importance to Dr. Jane Rowley. Patients should completely avoid smoking and nicotine patches and nicotine gum when preparing to undergo plastic surgery. You should continue to avoid smoking and other forms of nicotine during the recovery period as well.
Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading plastic surgeon in Lubbock who cares about the health and recovery of her plastic surgery patients. Visit our office today at Rowley Plastic Surgery and discover your cosmetic possibilities. rowleyplasticsurgery.com