Smoking after rhinoplasty? One month post-op.

Question

Hi Doctors, One month ago, I got a open rhinoplasty with alarplasty. However, no bones were broken. My nose bridge was enhanced with silicone implant and my tip was enhanced with my ear cartilage. I also had my alar reduced. Right now, there is not much swelling left and all incisions are healing well. I am now 4 weeks post-operation and was thinking if it is okay to smoke? Will smoking affect my final result? I know smoking is bad but I deal with anxiety and it calms me down.

Terence Goh, MBBS, MRCS(Ed), FAMS (Plast Surg) · Answer

Dear midnight moonlight,Thank you for your question on smoking after surgery. First, let's examine why most surgeons would advise patients to stop smoking before their surgeries (The recommended time varies from 2-8 weeks). Nicotine which is in all tobacco products is a powerful vasoconstrictor and this causes the blood vessels to constrict or narrow, hence reducing blood flow to the tissues and the operated area. Smoking also reduces the amount of oxygen that your blood carries. After surgery, the oxygenated blood is essential for the tissues to heal and hence this is why smoking slows down wound healing and recovery after any surgery, resulting in increase risks of infection and wound complications. And that is just one reason why you should stop smokingThe recovery period after every surgery varies and it is best to check with your surgeon. I'm happy to hear that most of the wounds have healed and the swelling has started to resolve. Nonetheless, I'm certain that the recovery is not fully completed and smoking would certainly slow it to some extent. I would advise you to continue your smoking cessation. You can also speak with your doctor or family physician if you need help with the smoking cessation.I hope this helps. All the best!Dr. Terence GohAZATACA Plastic SurgerySingapore

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. You should wait 2-3 weeks because your operation area trying to get healed. Then after yes you can do smoke and drink. I wish you all the best.

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

Smoking can delay healing and cause wound healing  issues.  You may be healed enough at this point to resume smoking, but it is best to discuss this with your surgeon.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. You should absolutely consult with your physician about your smoking habits in order to obtain the most reliable and individualized medical advice. Most specialists recommend abstaining from 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!

Smoking after rhinoplasty? One month post-op.

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Smoking after rhinoplasty? One month post-op.

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