The problem with smoking and facelift surgery is that...

Richard P. Rand, MD answers: How does smoking affect healing and scarring after plastic surgery?

I'm a smoker. They (any facial surgeon) say you MUST quit smoking 2-6 weeks before and I'm having a real problem. I went from 20 to 24 cigs. a day down to 2 and still its a problem. Perhaps someone could elaborate on the why and how it effects the healing process, scaring whatever. Thank you.


Richard P. Rand, MD
14 months ago
By Richard P. Rand, MD - Seattle Plastic Surgeon

The problem with smoking and facelift surgery is that the nicotine constricts the blood vessels that are critical to keeping your lifted skin alive as you heal from surgery. Inadequate blood flow will lead to skin death, with the skin turning black and sloughing off leaving substantial scars on your face that are permanent. The nicotine is the culprit, not the actual smoke so nicotine gums and patches are equally bad.

A period away from all nicotine of one month before AND another month after surgery will take your risk down to almost normal and might also help you kick the habit permanently as a side benefit.

Included in this time is the need to avoid second hand smoke as this has been shown to also harm healing.

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