How Does Smoking Affect My Breast Surgery?
An important step in planning for elective cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures is to make sure a patient is healthy and eliminate any factors that may put a patient at a higher risk of healing complications. One of those factors includes avoiding first and second hand smoke. Smoking is known to cause many types of cancer and heart disease, but what most patients do not know is that smoking can also harm the chances of having a successful plastic surgery operation such as breast augmentation, lift or reduction.
Smoking can cause the following plastic surgery related issues:
- Poor blood circulation
- Increased risk of infection & pulmonary problems
- Accelerated Tissue Aging
- Slower healing
- Increased Wrinkling
- Abnormal scarring (hypertrophic, keloid, or dark pigmentation)
- Irregular bruising
The carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke critically reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, which is essential for wound healing. Smoking decreases the proper functioning of the lungs, airways and your body’s ability to fight infection. It also affects the blood vessels, the heart and the blood pressure. Furthermore, smoking clogs the lungs, and thus increases risk of blood clots or pulmonary infection such as pneumonia.
Non-smokers enjoy better and longer lasting results, quicker recovery, and less risk. In short, if you are considering plastic surgery, you may also want to seriously consider the idea that this is the perfect time to quit smoking. Consult with Dr. Alexander to discuss your breast enhancement procedure. He will provide you with the information you need to properly prepare your care before, during, and after your surgery!
