I Smoked One Cigarette 10 Days After Rhinoplasty - Is That Okay?

But do you really expect that anyone will give you a "pass" on prohibited activities?

Nicotine is such a potent vasoconstrictor (causes blood vessels to clamp shut) that virtually all plastic surgeons (except perhaps those who smoke themselves) recommend stopping all tobacco or nicotine use several weeks before and after surgery. The problem with vasoconstriction is loss of circulation in the nasal skin which could cause delayed healing, scarring, or skin loss requiring prolonged dressings, skin graft, or other reconstructive surgery. Sort of a big deal, isn't it?

So, no, 1 cigarette is NOT OK. Even if you haven't had any problems healing thus far, your healing is far from complete, so you do yourself no favors if you "sneak one" every now and then. Sort of like a little rat poison, wouldn't you say?

Hello,Thank you for your question. Smoking is not advised after a rhinoplasty because it can delay and interfere with the healing process. I advice you stop smoking immediately. You can return to smoking 4 weeks post op. All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

A single cigarette will not have a detrimental affect on the results of your rhinoplasty surgery. Still, cigarettes are known to be addictive in nature, and what starts off as one single cigarette can lead to continual smoking- which is not okay. My best advise is to refrain from smoking cigarettes altogether, so as to ensure that you are fully recovering and that your new nose is not negatively impacted in any way that can be controlled. 

It's extremely important that patients avoid the use of tobacco before and after surgery since this substance inhibits the recovery process. You should not smoke in the three weeks leading up to the nose job operation and for another three weeks afterward. This is primarily due to inhibiting blood circulation and making it more difficult to fight infection. If you are very worried, I recommend seeing your surgeon for an assessment.

This is a very common question and I am glad you asked it. You should not smoke - even if it is just one. If you wish to have the best results then you need to adhere to your doctors recommendations until you completely heal. These guidelines are given to you in the best interest of one main person – you.


Be well and smoke free,
James M. Ridgway, MD, FACS

Dear rhinoplasty patient,
I agree with other respected plastic surgeons regarding smoking. Since you have not smoked for a long time take this opportunity to quit smoking all together. Saying that only one cigarette would not harm your nose. Enjoy your nose and your health