Is chance of nipple necrosis greater after explant and lift, in marijuana smokers?

Question

In regular marijuana users, will chance of necrosis increase? I understand nicotine users have a higher risk of this but does this increased risk, also apply to marijuana smokers as well? More background: 20 lbs overweight. Walk 3 miles a day in 60 minutes. Smoking 1 joint a day, not vaping, or oil or edibles. Thank you for your help and honest opinions

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

thank you for your question. Yes...there is an increased risk of wound complications with any type of smoking.It's best to have a thorough in person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss all of your treatment options. Best of luck!
Dr. Dhaval M.Patel
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Chicago-Water Tower Place, Oakbrook, Hoffman Estates, Orland Park

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is true that nicotine can pose real problems during surgery.  Nicotine constricts blood vessels which can impact getting blood to healing areas.  Marijuana is not without its issues around surgery too.  It is important that you closely follow your surgeons instructions and stop marijuana use as advised by your surgeon.  I've included a video that specifically addresses this below.

Clayton L. Moliver, MD · Answer

There are associated risks for surgery and healing with any type of smoking. We have our patients stop smoking for 6 weeks prior to certain procedures to decrease wound healing problems/complications.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Smoking anything may increase your risk of problems after surgery because your oxygen level may be lower than nonsmokers. It would be best to stop at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

Nipple necrosis can occur after breast-lift.  Different techniques and smoking can increase the chances.  Best to avoid some days before, and some weeks after your smoking.  One a day is small, and low risk, but best to be safe.Dr. Keith Denkler
#RealSelf100 Member

L. Dwight Baker, MD (retired) · Answer

There is certainly a very high risk of nipple necrosis with such surgical procedures in patients who smoke anything, including not only regular tobacco but also marijuana, e-cigarettes, vapor or any other inhaled smoke.  I would strongly recommend that  you avoid smoking anything for at least 3 weeks before your surgery and 6 weeks after the surgery to try and avoid significant healing problems, especially nipple areolar necrosis.  Additionally keep in mind that second hand smoke can also lead to tissue necrosis after mastopexy so be sure to stay away from smokers during this same period of time.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

I would avoid any type of smoking for 2 weeks prior to surgery and at least 2 weeks after surgery.  One a day is low, but it is best to be safe.

Is chance of nipple necrosis greater after explant and lift, in marijuana smokers?

Answers (7)

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