Posted: October 14, 2015
There are a number of reasons to quit smoking. If you are considering plastic surgery, there is no alternative. Smoking increases risks for a number of surgical complications – including a 40% increase in risks for fatal complications. What’s more, smoking slows the recovery process, makes healing less effective, and can result in a number of aesthetic imperfections. Board-certified Scottsdale plastic surgeon Dr. John Corey requires patients stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery. Eight weeks or more is required for procedures such as mommy makeover or post-bariatric body contouring.
Nicotine Replacement
Nicotine replacement therapy can be a great way to quit smoking, but it is best if this is done well in advance of your procedure. Nicotine is a vascular constrictor and decreases blood flow to damaged tissue. While nicotine alone is not linked to poor wound healing, it can impair the proliferative response of collagen and result in less than desirable results. During your initial consultation, Dr. Corey can discuss this with you in greater detail and help provide you with effective methods to kick the habit for good.
If you are considering plastic surgery in Scottsdale, please contact John J. Corey, MD online or by calling 480-767-7700 today. We serve patients living throughout Arizona.