I want to have liposuction w/ or w/o tummy tuck, depending on cost. I quit smoking cigs on 08/15/16 because I used a vaporizer (e-cig). I have cut the nicotine level to 6mg & hope to be at 0 before January. I know smoking is a big no- no, but I'm not sure why. Is it the nicotine, or is it the other chemicals in tobacco smoke that creates the problem? Am I wasting time scheduling a consult now? Previous surgeries healed quickly (laparotomy, 2 C-sections, laproscopic).
September 23, 2016
Answer: Vaping and Tummy Tuck Thanks for the question. Smoking cigarettes results in both an absorption of nicotine as well as an increase in carbon monoxide levels, both of which are inhibitory to wound healing. Vaping eliminates the increase in carbon monoxide levels but still increases nicotine levels. This is better than smoking but still has a negative effect on wound healing. If possible, I would recommend working on lowering the nicotine level consumed with vaping before pursuing tummy tuck surgery. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to prepare yourself for the best tummy tuck outcome in the future.
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September 23, 2016
Answer: Vaping and Tummy Tuck Thanks for the question. Smoking cigarettes results in both an absorption of nicotine as well as an increase in carbon monoxide levels, both of which are inhibitory to wound healing. Vaping eliminates the increase in carbon monoxide levels but still increases nicotine levels. This is better than smoking but still has a negative effect on wound healing. If possible, I would recommend working on lowering the nicotine level consumed with vaping before pursuing tummy tuck surgery. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to prepare yourself for the best tummy tuck outcome in the future.
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September 23, 2016
Answer: Vaping and Surgery Thank you for your question.While cigarettes do have other chemicals that inhibit healing and are probably worse than vaping for healing and health overall, nicotine alone acts to constrict blood vessels. Constricted blood vessels reduce blood flow to the area, and inhibits wound healing. I don't think anybody is ever "wasting their time" with a consult, as you can start to discuss surgical options and the best timing for them, even if it's months down the road.Best,Dr. Dan KrochmalMAE Plastic SurgeryNorthbrook, IL
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September 23, 2016
Answer: Vaping and Surgery Thank you for your question.While cigarettes do have other chemicals that inhibit healing and are probably worse than vaping for healing and health overall, nicotine alone acts to constrict blood vessels. Constricted blood vessels reduce blood flow to the area, and inhibits wound healing. I don't think anybody is ever "wasting their time" with a consult, as you can start to discuss surgical options and the best timing for them, even if it's months down the road.Best,Dr. Dan KrochmalMAE Plastic SurgeryNorthbrook, IL
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
