Swollen Nose After Cigarette?

The toxins you inhale while smoking, most notably nicotine, have a variety of short and long term negative effects on your body and health. Nicotine causes vasoconstriction which can significantly impair healing after surgery (thats why we always recommend you stop smoking prior to and after surgery). Basically, there is nothing good that happens when smoking. Your nose is telling you this in a very obvious and explicit manner. 

On a personal level, you have invested time and money in elective surgery. The quality of your outcome is directly tied to smoking cessation. You did something nice for yourself by having a rhinoplasty. Why not do take this chance to do something even better for your self and quit smoking? 

 

    You need to be examined by your surgeon and discontinue smoking.

 

 

 

Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

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 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!