I have a Tummy Tuck scheduled in 7 wks. I used to be a smoker for many years but now only smoke socially (10 a month if that). I smoked a few the other day and I am concerned about skin necrosis because of that and my history of smoking.I am 34, very healthy, and in great shape. I have loose skin and separation of muscles from pregnancy. I am also wondering how the recovery is in comparison to c-section, I have had 2 (very easy). I will not smoke anymore but am concerned about my past and risks.
July 27, 2014
Answer: Tummy tuck recovery and necrosis risk due to smoking? Hello! Thank you for your question! The issue with nicotine is that it also acts as a vasoconstrictor, clamping down of blood vessels. Blood supply is always of great concern during any surgical procedure, but especially in such a procedure as a tummy tuck where the viability of the belly button and skin flaps are obviously important. Since the vascularity to the area is already tenuous with the dissection of the abdominal tissue as well as cutting around the belly button, maximizing blood flow to the tissue is critical. Typically, we recommend at least 6 weeks of smoking cessation prior to and at least 6 weeks after any surgical procedure. The longer, the better. Nicotine always increases the risk for infection, skin flap necrosis, and wound complications, as well as other health consequences. There is an increase pulmonary risk with the anesthesia and postop lung infections. The most devastating consequence of infection, especially since the tissue is tightened, is increased. This along with wound healing and scarring. I would discuss this with your surgeon prior to your procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!
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July 27, 2014
Answer: Tummy tuck recovery and necrosis risk due to smoking? Hello! Thank you for your question! The issue with nicotine is that it also acts as a vasoconstrictor, clamping down of blood vessels. Blood supply is always of great concern during any surgical procedure, but especially in such a procedure as a tummy tuck where the viability of the belly button and skin flaps are obviously important. Since the vascularity to the area is already tenuous with the dissection of the abdominal tissue as well as cutting around the belly button, maximizing blood flow to the tissue is critical. Typically, we recommend at least 6 weeks of smoking cessation prior to and at least 6 weeks after any surgical procedure. The longer, the better. Nicotine always increases the risk for infection, skin flap necrosis, and wound complications, as well as other health consequences. There is an increase pulmonary risk with the anesthesia and postop lung infections. The most devastating consequence of infection, especially since the tissue is tightened, is increased. This along with wound healing and scarring. I would discuss this with your surgeon prior to your procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!
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February 3, 2010
Answer: Smoking and Tummy Tucks Smoking will increase your risk of skin necrosis for any form of plastic surgery. Because most of our work is often at the level of the skin, or is at least somehow altering the tension on the skin (usually increasing it), we are very sensitive to smokers.
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February 3, 2010
Answer: Smoking and Tummy Tucks Smoking will increase your risk of skin necrosis for any form of plastic surgery. Because most of our work is often at the level of the skin, or is at least somehow altering the tension on the skin (usually increasing it), we are very sensitive to smokers.
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