Smoking effects surgical recovery. Impacting the vascular system, smoking drastically slows blood flow to surgical incisions, resulting in a delayed healing response and a much larger risk for thick and visible scars. E-Cigarettes, which may be a useful tool in quitting smoking, do not reduce these risks because they still contain nicotine, the primary vasoconstrictor in tobacco products. What’s more, nicotine may also result in vasospasm following plastic surgery, causing deep tissue and muscle pain.
If you are a smoker, Naples plastic surgeon Dr. Manuel Peña will strongly suggest you quit at least six to eight weeks before your procedure. Quitting in this instance means shedding nicotine from your system entirely, making e-cigarettes, and nicotine patches and gums a poor alternative to traditional tobacco products. Other methods of smoking cessation will be best for reducing the dangers of nicotine in the system during plastic surgery recovery, helping ensure the fastest recovery and most pleasing results. These methods should be discussed with your physician before you schedule your plastic surgery procedure.
The New Year is often a good time to quit smoking. It’s also a good time to begin planning your goals for the months ahead. If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of your appearance, these goals may include facial, body, or breast surgery to bring your body into more ideal and pleasing proportions. Dr. Peña welcomes an opportunity to help you reach these goals through targeted and personalized surgical procedures. Please contact Peña Plastic Surgery to schedule your initial consultation and learn more.
Dr. Manuel Peña is a board-certified plastic surgeon located in Naples, Florida. He welcomes patients from Ft. Myers, Bonita Springs, and all surrounding communities.
