Smoking Marijuana After Breast Augmentation?

Hello! Thank you for your question! The issue with nicotine, or any inhalational agent, is that it also acts as a vasoconstrictor, clamping down of blood vessels. Blood supply is always of great concern during any surgical procedure, but especially in such a procedure as a breast augmentation where the viability of the nipple-areolar complex is obviously important. Since the vascularity to the area is already tenuous with placement of the implant beneath, maximizing blood flow to the tissue is critical. Typically, we recommend at least 6 weeks of smoking cessation prior to and at least 6 weeks after any surgical procedure. The longer, the better. Nicotine always increases the risk for infection, nipple necrosis, and wound complications, as well as other health consequences. The most devastating consequence of infection, especially since an implantable prosthetic device is used, is increased. This along with wound healing and scarring. I would discuss this with your surgeon prior to your procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

i am unaware of any association of marijuana and complications of healing

 

even the effects of tobacco and healing diminish after 2 4 weeks

Some studies have shown that tobacco smokers have increased risks of capsular contracture.  Smoking tobacco or marijuana is known to cause vaso constriction.  Wound healing is all about getting blood flow to the wound.  For these reasons, we ask our patient to refrain from smoking anything at least a few weeks before and after surgery.