Is there a link between nicotine and capsular contracture with breast implants?

Question

I gave up smoking over a year ago but have been chewing nicotine gum (2mg about 7 a day) and had breast implants 3 weeks ago. I gave up a week before and have just started on them again but I'm confused about whether it will increase my risk of capsular contracture because many PS's on this site have said there's no link and many have said there is one. My own PS says there's no link. Who is correct?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

Cigarette smoke contains 4000 toxic substances.  The effects of each of these substances on the outcome of a breast augmentation has not been studied individually.  The most important issues with cigarette smoke is the carbon monoxide, which compromises the oxygen delivery to the healing tissues, and the nicotine, which causes spasm of the blood vessels delivering blood to the healing wound.  Anything that compromises healing can lead to an increase risk of infection, wound separation, or capsular contracture.  Just because there is no scientific paper which links nicotine or carbon monoxide specifically to the development of capsular contractors, does not mean that an association exists but has not been adequately identified.  Clearly eliminating the smoke is important because of the carbon monoxide poisoning of the blood.  Eliminating nicotine is important as well.  Since you had given up the nicotine gum a week before and for 3 weeks after, it might be wise to stay away from the nicotine until everything is completely healed.

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

There is an association, but not a scientifically, poven direct link. In my practice, where I have performed many first time breast augmentations, I believe there is a slight increase in the risk for capsular contracture. My recommendation would be to stop smoking completely for 6 weeks before surgery and completely quit after. Look at all the other benefits that will come with it!! Good luck

Raymond Jean, MD · Answer

although there is no study I know of linking capsular contracture and nicotine.  There are multiple studies that show harmful effects of not just smoking but also nicotine itself on wound healing after surgery or trauma.  I do not think there is any direct evidence of a link so I would not worry about it.

Is there a link between nicotine and capsular contracture with breast implants?

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Is there a link between nicotine and capsular contracture with breast implants?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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