Does Smoking and Alcohol Increase Swelling Post Rhinoplasty?

Question

I had open rhinoplasty surgery about 2 months ago and it looked good until I started partying.  Does alcohol consumption or smoking increase inflammation and swelling in and around the tip of the nose?

Sam Rizk, MD · Answer

Yes,
 smoking and alcohol should be largely avoided, especially directly 
after a nose job as they can both contribute to nasal swelling. I 
typically advise my patients to abstain from either activity for about 
2-3 weeks after surgery. Since your rhinoplasty surgery was 
approximately two months ago, I would say that it is okay to drink and 
smoke as long as it is kept to a minimum and is controlled.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Nicotine causes a "choking off" or vasoconstriction of blood vessels in your skin. In your postoperative state, you are relying on the vasculature of your nasal skin to decrease swelling. In non smokers who have had rhinoplasty, nasal tip edema can persist for up to a year. Smoking will only delay your eventual healing and your final result.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

If done in moderation it is probably not significant. Alcohol is a vasodilator and you may notice more swelling the next few days and then it will subside.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. You should absolutely consult with your physician about your smoking and drinking habits in order to obtain the most reliable and individualized medical advice. Most specialists recommend abstaining from smoking for 2-3 weeks before a rhinoplasty, while others may insist on a full month or two. Smoking will cause irritation and restrict the blood flow to your healing areas, possibly causing complications during the recovery period.   
In addition, you should also make sure to avoid smoking for at least two weeks after surgery as it may interfere with your healing process. Smoking after surgery may restrict the flow of blood to the healing areas, exacerbate swelling, and prolong recovery. Of course, as a physician, I would advise you to quit smoking altogether due to a variety of health risks associated with it. 
 An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon would be the best way to assess your needs and obtain expert medical advice. Best of luck!

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Alcohol can increase the swelling in the nose by vasodilation of the blood vessels. Cigarette smoking is an irritant to the internal portion of the nose. Both smoking and drinking are not conducive to good healing in the postoperative phase. It is best to quit smoking and limit the alcohol consumption.

Does Smoking and Alcohol Increase Swelling Post Rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)

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