When can I start smoking again after a tummy tuck and lipo? (Photo)

Thanks for the question. You should wait 1-2 months because your operation area trying to get healed. Then after yes you can do smoke and drink. I wish you all the best.

Follow your PS's advice.  Ideally you should stop smoking for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after your surgical procedure. You are well over half way of the two postoperative weeks by now. Refrain from smoking for the remainder of the two weeks to continue healing well.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

 I agree with your surgeon, two weeks would be the minimum. Cigarette smoke contains more than 250 toxins, including carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, nitric oxide, and of course nicotine, and all of this will interfere with wound healing. Oxygenated blood fights infection and is the means for transporting antibiotics and other medications through the body. Nicotine will cause the blood vessels to constrict and then it is possible for blood clots to form affecting blood flow which can lead to necrosis where cells may die. Then debridement may be necessary making your surgical outcome less than optimal. It appears that you are healing well and have a nice result, why chance it? Good luck

You should try your best to stop at this point as you have done very well getting to where you are. Once your wounds have healed (usually 4-6 weeks) you are unlikely to jeopardise your result. Best to check with your PS.

The risk with smoking is due to the nicotine and causes poor wound healing & wound breakdown.  After a tummy tuck this risk is very high as large areas of skin are lifted up & the wounds are considerable. I recommend 6 weeks of no smoking prior to surgery & 6 weeks after your procedure.  I will not proceed with a significant operation like a tummy tuck unless a patient agrees to this.  This is not negotiable.  I'm sure your surgeon gave you their advice prior to any operation.  Please, for your own benefit, refrain from smoking or any nicotine products for at least another month.  

Never! My patients stop for 6 weeks prior to surgery and 6 weeks after surgery in order to optimize healing. Remember that smoking causes your skin to stretch, become more saggy, appear aged faster, and can cause problems with healing that may lead to open wounds, infection, or worse. Talk with your board certified plastic surgeon to see what is right for you.

Thank you for your question and photo.  I tell my patients to stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.   Ideally, you shouldn’t smoke at all for your health, but from a wound healing standpoint, you really need 4 weeks to minimize the risk of large open wounds and bad scars.  Best wishes.