Do I need to quit smoking before buccal fat removal procedure?

Question

I know I'd probably need to quit after doing the procedure, but since it'll be done under local anesthesia, would I need to quit smoking prior to buccal fat removal?

Corey S. Maas, MD · Answer

The recommendation to quit smoking prior to surgery has more to do with wound healing than with what type of anesthesia is used for the procedure. Tobacco smoke contains carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals that can attach irreversibly to the component of our blood that carries oxygen, decreasing the ability of blood to carry healthy oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. This could result in sub optimal wound healing, increased risk of the incisions opening, infection and other concerns. Best of luck

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Dear Eliasgilmore,Thank you for your question. The best advice would be to quit smoking before Buccal Fat Removal. It will help the healing and ensure that you're recovery is as short and quick as possible.Please let us know if you have any other questions or concerns.Sincerely,Dr. P Daniel Ward

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Patients wishing to undergo buccal fat removal as well as any other plastic surgery procedure should stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior surgery and continue without smoking during the healing process.Active smoking will impair wound healing and increase the risk of surgery complications like infection, wound dehiscence, inadequate scarring, etc.

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

Absolutely!  It is very important that you stop smoking before any procedure or surgery as it will impair healing and can potentially cause unwanted complications.  Smoking can prevent proper healing of the wounds which can open up during the healing process. Because the mouth is full of bacteria, this can cause infection.  Most surgeons require that you stop smoking at least 2-3 weeks prior to any procedure.  Please consult with your board certified surgeon prior to your procedure.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Yes. Quitting smoking two weeks before and after surgery (at a minimum) would be required. Especially when incisions are created inside the mouth and exposed to oral bacteria you want to heal as quickly as possible. Smoking diminishes the body's ability to heal and decreases the blood supply to the surgical wound. Best.

Do I need to quit smoking before buccal fat removal procedure?

Answers (5)

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