Question:
Has anyone been denied plastics due to smoking?

Looking into plastics and have noticed that there is a big issue concerning the healing process after surgery being hindered because of smoking. Has anyone who smokes had plastic surgery done and if so how well did you heal after the surgery?    — Marilyn S. (posted on November 18, 2003)

November 18, 2003
I think it is that way with all surgeries, they don't want you to smoke because of the anesthetic, I had a friend who smoked prior to his WLS and was in the hospital for 9 days with almost instant pneumonia, worse than that he could have even died. I would try my hardest to quit! Good Luck To You!
   — Saxbyd

November 18, 2003
I've read some profiles whose doctors didn't have an issue with the patient being a smoker and others whose doctors did. If you really don't want to quit (like me) call around and ask all the PS in your vicinity their policy on the topic. Their pretty up-front about it and you can do it anonymously. Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]

November 18, 2003
I am in the middle of my plastics. I dont smoke; but during my consult... my doctor asked if I did. The ONLY two times he has had complications were 'with smokers'. If you are considering breast reductions you might serious think about quitting first.
   — star .

November 18, 2003
I have had 9 surgeries in the past 2 1/2 years. Orhtopedic surgeries. I was told by my surgeons that it takes longer to heal if you are a smoker. Sure enough, I had neck surgery in January this year and the bone fusion never took, in August I had to go back and have the same surgery done again. So I stopped smoking and my fusion in my neck is healing quite well now. I say, stop smoking til after you have your plastic surgery, after you heal, if you want, start smoking again. Good luck either way.
   — cindirella

November 18, 2003
Aside from the complications with the anesthesia, it decreases the amount of oxygen in our blood. The flow of oxygen to the stomach is especially poor when you smoke. I've had a couple of Plastic surgeons tell me this is why they don't want you to smoke 3 weeks before of 3 weeks after. Pam
   — Pambylah

November 18, 2003
I smoke 2 packs a day and eight weeks ago, I had a TT, breast lift and my arms done, and I'm still far from healed. I have been healing very slowly with this surgery and am very surprised, as I normally bounce back very quickly from any illness (I was out Xmas shopping one week after my lap RNY). I was told during my pre-op tests that I would heal slower because of my smoking, that the reduced oxygen in my blood would impede the healing, and apparently they were right. The two JP drain sites are still open (very slightly) and there are a few spots on my right breast and right arm that aren't healing completely. I still have a lot of swelling in my tummy and arms (including my forearms and wrists). I upped my protein intake to help the healing, but I have no doubt that my smoking is the main cause of this. I'm going back for some thigh work in February, and I am seriously considering quitting smoking beforehand. Enough is enough already.
   — Cyndie K.