Florida Plastic Surgeon - Dr Clevens

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Stop Smoking and Start Healing

If you smoke and you are considering having facial plastic surgery, I recommend quitting a minimum of two weeks before and after your procedure.

Nicotine, one of the main ingredients in tobacco products causes the tiny blood vessels in the skin to clamp down or constrict, which reduces blood supply to the skin.

Complications can and usually include poor wound healing, increased risk of infection, longer-lasting bruises, and raised, red scars. Smokers also run the risk of infection and respiratory complications during anesthesia.

I have come to know a growing number of cosmetic-surgery patients who are motivated to quit smoking in order to have a facelift or other facial plastic surgery. Many patients, when encouraged to stop smoking for their facial plastic procedure, have remained smoke-free for years after their procedure. The desire for their cosmetic enhancement overrode their desire to smoke.

Facial cosmetic surgery is an investment. To be an active participant in your healing and recovery it is best to quit smoking to help ensure the best possible outcome.

If you are considering having facial plastic surgery I urge you to begin a smoking cessation plan.

You may find these websites helpful:

http://www.tobaccofreeflorida.com/english/quitline/

http://www.flquitline.com/

Alternatively you may call our office at 321-951-3223 and we will be glad to locate valuable local resources to help you meet your smoking cessation goals.

Please do not put your image before your health. Allow us to help you today.