How Smoking Affects Plastic Surgery Results - It's More Serious Than You Think

Plastic surgery encompasses a wide range of operations that include facelifts, breast enlargements and tummy tucks. However, you could have the most qualified surgeon and still fall victim to complications if you are a serious smoker. You may be surprised to discover this but failing to accept it could lead to less than ideal results from plastic surgery.

Be up front about everything with your surgeon

When you go in for a consultation with a qualified surgeon you must give them a full history of any smoking habits or medications that you are currently taking. Failure to disclose this information could lead to future complications with the operation which is the last thing you would want. Even if you take over the counter medication you still need to let your surgeon know.

The effects of smoking on plastic surgery

If you are a smoker then it is important to be aware that nicotine in the body could hinder the recovery process. What often happens is that cases of infections and skin death are more common for smokers due to complications that smoking causes. Depending on what the procedure is some surgeons may require you to be completely nicotine free for a few weeks prior to an operation.

The same advice also applies during the recovery period as you will need to stay away from heavy smoking until you are completely healed. The reason such complications occur is because you will most likely be put under some type of sedation which does not mix well with nicotine. So if you want the best results then you may need to give up this habit otherwise your results could be less than satisfactory.

How about medications?

There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of different types of prescription and nonprescription medications that could also interfere with the procedure. Some medications may be okay to take but others may not be okay. This is why it is so important to speak with your surgeon about any medications that you take even if they are for the common cold or for a headache.

By : Mohamad_Alodah