If you only smoke I cigarette 7 days before surgery will this affect the healing process for a Mommy Makeover?

Safety should always be the primary
concern in any procedure. The goal of all plastic surgeons that perform
Mommy Makeovers is to improve the appearance with minimal side effects or problems.
Exposure to smoke, either directly or indirectly, or the use of any nicotine
releasing products, has been shown to increase the incidence of serious
complications after Mommy Makeover surgery and in most other cosmetic or
reconstructive procedures. Most plastic surgeons refuse to perform cosmetic surgery on
patients who are active smokers or are using nicotine in any form. It is
generally recommended that all smoking or the use of any nicotine releasing
products should be completely stopped at least 14 days before a Mommy Makeover,
and for a minimum of 10-14 days after the surgical procedure. Ideally, one
should stop permanently, not just because of its effect on aging, but from an
overall health perspective.

All wound healing depends on blood supply.
The blood flow to the skin and underlying tissue is diminished by smoking,
which constricts the small blood vessels. Smokers have a significantly higher
rate of delayed healing, infection, opening of the incisions, necrosis or loss
of the  skin that is elevated and the underlying tissue, poor scarring,
and anesthesia problems.

Be honest with your plastic surgeon who
should be certified by the American Board of American Plastic Surgery and
ideally a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
about your exposure to smoke and follow all instructions. Remember that you are
a participant in your care.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California

One cigarette 7 days prior will not make a difference in your healing.  But smoking regularly in the weeks prior to that may.  The more recommendations state that patients should stop smoking 4 weeks prior to an abdominoplasty.