Is vaping nicotine while healing from a broken nose okay?

Question

I broke my nose 2 days ago and went the the hospital and got it put back into its position. I am wondering if it is okay to vape nicotine on a healing nose or will it cause more trouble possibly?

Jamil Ahmad, MD · Answer

I strongly advise that patients not smoke, vape or ingest
nicotine for at least 1 month before and after any procedure. Nicotine inhibits
healing, constricting the blood vessels making it difficult for the precious oxygenated
red bloods cells to carry the oxygen required to the body especially the areas
that are currently healing. 
In some cases where patients smoke, the tissues in the
nose will die and you will notice that they become black in colour. It is incredibly
difficult to obtain a satisfying result once this occurs and patients will require
further procedures to treat this.

Heather Lee, MD · Answer

Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor which means it causes blood vessels to narrow.  Because of this, it impedes wound healing and would not be recommended.

Jason J. Durel, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor, which means it restricts blood flow by constricting the vessels. Blood carries vital oxygen and nutrients throughout the tissue and organs of the body, which makes it an essential element in the healing process. When it is restricted, the recovery process from any type of surgery is also affected. Patients that consume nicotine in any way before and after surgery increase their risk for a variety of complications, including poor wound healing and problems associated with anesthesia. For this reason, I would strongly recommend you refrain from any nicotine consumption for many weeks to allow your nose to heal fully. However, specific questions should be addressed to the plastic or reconstructive surgeon that performed your procedure. Best wishes on a healthy and successful recovery!
- Jason J. Durel, MD

Omar Fouda Neel, MD, FRCSC, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your inquiry. I strongly suggest not vaping nicotine or digesting nicotine in any way. Patients are advised to stop nicotine about 4 weeks prior and post their surgery. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor which means it constricts the blood vessels causing blood flow to either slow down or block. This can cause a delay in healing. Smokers in general have more complications with anesthesia, more complications after surgery, and slower healing than nonsmokers. Therefore I strongly suggest against it. In hopes this has helped. Best Regards

Ahmed Sufyan, MD · Answer

Helllo,
Thank you for your question. I would not recommend nicotine use while your nose is healing. This can slow the healing process.

Dr. Sufyan

Is vaping nicotine while healing from a broken nose okay?

Answers (5)