Plastic Surgeons Refusing to Operate on Smokers

Many plastic surgery patients do not realize the harmful effects that their smoking habits can have on their recovering operations. This is why several plastic surgeons are taking steps to ensure that their patients understand the risks and are even refusing to operate if the patient does not promise to quit smoking, or has not quit smoking at least six weeks prior to the operation.

Some surgeons are using graphic pictures of procedures gone horribly wrong to convince their patients to stay away from cigarettes. These shock tactics often work and can make people quit cold turkey.

The reason that it is so important to stay away from not only cigarettes, but any form of nicotine, is that it reduces blood flow in the body. Blood flow assists recovery, and without it, tissue dies. This is especially important for facelifts and other extremely visible operations. If a patient does not follow the surgeon’s instructions, he or she may find himself with a face full of dead, black tissue. At this point, the only cure is a series of painful skin graft procedures.

If you would like to have a facelift- to reverse the effects of aging and smoking, but are having trouble quitting, contact a plastic surgeon for advice today. He or she may be able to help you kick the habit for good.