I have been a smoker for about 3 years. If I quit TODAY, the 12th, will I be okay to have surgery on the 28th?

Question

My Breast Reduction Surgery is on the 28th of June (2017).

Edward J. Bednar, MD · Answer

I require that patients not smoke a min of 6-8 weeks before surgery and I also put them on Ensure.  Smokers who quit in too short of a time before surgery, run a greater risk of wound healing issues and tissue necrosis after surgery.I would recommend you address this with you PS asap and possibly reschedule

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

My answer would be NO, but your plastic surgeon may disagree. Be honest about your smoking habits when you ask for guidance, as misinforming him or her will jeopardize your surgery results and your health.Definitely stop smoking now! Smoking reduces circulation to the skin and impedes healing.  It is best to avoid smoking, including second hand smoke, and cigarette replacements, such as nicotine patches or gum, in the perioperative period.  Ideally you should stop smoking for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after your surgery.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Recommendations will vary from one practice to another;  therefore your plastic surgeon will have the most relevant recommendations for you. In my practice, I ask patients to avoid nicotine in all its "modalities' of delivery 6 weeks prior to surgery. It is a powerful constrictor of blood vessels, decreasing blood flow to the “flaps” used during these procedures. This decreased blood flow could potentially lead to wound healing problems and/or tissue necrosis. 
Best advice: avoid nicotine completely as long as possible prior to surgery and then do not restart.
Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I prefer patients stopping at least 2-4 weeks prior to surgery and to stay off during the healing process. You are best to review this with your surgeon.

J. Garrett Harper, MD · Answer

Most surgeons would want you to be completely off nicotine and cigarettes for at least 4 weeks prior to surgery.  Reduction of blood flow to you nipple can lead to you losing that tissue.  That is a nightmare for patient and surgeon.  My advice is that you reschedule.  Hope this helps.-JGH

Michael Carlisle, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I require 3 months nicotine-free. The medical evidence is clear that smokers have wound healing problems. There is no good study that shows 'how long' is appropriate, but most say 3 months. You really don't want the problems that come with smoking and reduction. It's for your own good. Talk to your surgeon.

I have been a smoker for about 3 years. If I quit TODAY, the 12th, will I be okay to have surgery on the 28th?

Answers (6)

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