Swollen Nose After Rhinoplasty Due to Smoking ?

Question

Good morning, I had my nose done exactly two weeks ago, but my nose is still really swollen compared to other people who have done rhinoplasty on the same day; but I do want to say that I smoked 5 days before my surgery. Is my nose going to take more time to heal because of the cigarettes smoked few days before the surgery ? Approximately how long will it take for the swelling to go away? Do you recommend anything to reduce this swelling? Thank you and have a great day

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I can't see how smoking would have a significant effect on swelling after rhinoplasty. Nevertheless, if you want against the instructions of your surgeon you will live with the consequences.

Andres Bustillo, MD, FACS · Answer

Smoking is bad for healing and may lead to prolonged swelling. That being said, the 3 weeks after surgery are the time of the most intense swelling. After the third week, the swelling starts to come down dramatically. Its difficult to say why your swollen, as everyone is different. For now relax and let the healing take place.

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 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. If you did experience swelling after smoking, then your best bet is to reach out to your plastic surgeon and see if it can be resolved. 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!

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Hello,

	Thank you for the question.  Smoking and nicotine can affect healing after surgery.  If you have healed well and have not developed an infection or a wound you have avoided the major concerns with regards to smoking and healing after surgery.  Since swelling may be different among individuals it is hard to know whether the cigarettes made a difference or whether the difference in swelling between yourself and the other that you are comparing yourself to would have been there anyways.

	All the best,

	Dr. Remus Repta

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

Dear Green,

	Thank you for your question.  It if very common to be swollen 2 weeks after surgery, and the swelling is exacerbated by smoking.  Avoid smoking, and follow your surgeons post-op protocol.

	Best Wishes, 

	Pablo Prichard, MD

Swollen Nose After Rhinoplasty Due to Smoking ?

Answers (5)