How to Quit Smoking Before Plastic Surgery

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by Dr. Steven Wallach

While plastic surgeons have their own set of techniques during surgery, they all agree that it is really important to quit smoking before you undergo a cosmetic procedure. Apart from its ill effects on your overall health, smoking has been shown to have detrimental consequences to plastic surgery outcomes, may it be a breast augmentation, tummy tuck, or liposuction in Manhattan.

Effects of Smoking on Surgery

By and large, smoking causes blood vessel constriction which reduces the amount of oxygen distributed to cells all over your body. The lesser your oxygen supply, the greater the chances of delayed healing. Poor healing during plastic surgery results in complications such as infection, necrosis (death) of the skin, wound separation, and raised scars. Lastly, it has been shown that smokers tend to have longer post-surgery stays in the hospital and are at higher risks of readmission due to complications.

How to Quit Smoking Before Surgery

While it’s best to quit smoking for good, most plastic surgeons recommend that you kick the habit for at least 2 to 4 weeks before the procedure. Short term cessation of cigarette smoke has been shown to benefit post-surgery results. Here are some tips on how to quit smoking before your New York plastic surgery:

1. First of all, you need to fully commit to your goal and resolve to stick to it no matter what.
2. Consider using nicotine alternatives such as lozenges, gums, and nicotine patches. You can even ask your general health practitioner about nicotine nasal inhalers and sprays as they are only available with prescription. However, keep in mind that you can’t really use these nicotine replacement items immediately before or during your scheduled surgery.
3. Several smokers have quit smoking through the help of acupuncture or hypnotherapy. Consider seeing an acupuncture specialist or a hypnotherapist if you aim to quit smoking before plastic surgery.
4. Join an online or local group which shares the same goal as you. Having people that can relate and that can support you in your goal to quit smoking may be uplifting, motivating and encouraging.

During your initial consultation, it is very important that you tell your plastic surgeon about your smoking habits.

Manhattan Plastic Surgery

For more information about Manhattan plastic surgery and how to quit smoking, contact Dr. Steven Wallach in our Manhattan office at (212) 861-6400 or by mail at 1049 5th Avenue, Suite 2D in New York, NY 10028. You can also fill out this contact form to request additional details. We look forward to hearing from you!