As with any surgery, especially if you are having a general anesthesia, smoking is not recommended. People who smoke have higher risk of complications after general anesthesia. Smoking before and after a tummy tuck can definitely hinder your recovery. First of all, trying to cough after surgery is very difficult, and painful. If you have any type of cough following tummy tuck surgery the chances of damaging the repair is higher. Secondly the blood supply to the incision is compromised in a smoker. The incision does not get significant oxygenated blood to aid in the healing process. The patient may experience breakdown of the incision. This can extend to loss of tissue and skin around the incision (gangrene) . The recovery period is extended and the patient may need to have additional surgery to repair the breakdown. It is recommend that a patient try to stop smoking at least one month prior to surgery, and to not start again until healing is complete.
Smoking leads to decreased blood flow to the skin, During a tummy tucky your excess skin is cut away and the remaining skin edges are sutured together. The belly button is released and reattached through a new opening in the skin flap that is pulled down. Both the belly button and the skin that is pulled down to create a tight tummy are at risk to have poor blood flow when you are a smoker. The belly button can actually necrose and the wounds can have very delayed healing. Quit smoking at least 3 months before any surgery and also for your general health.
