It is truly undeniable that smoking can cause different health problems, especially in the respiratory system. In addition, it is proven that aside from the health disadvantages that smoking can bring, it can also affect the healing process and the blood supply to the surgical sites. If you are a smoker and you have undergone a tummy tuck, expect that you will have a more prolonged recovery period. The worst part is unnecessary wounds can also develop. It is also possible that incisions might open; there may be a loss of skin and subsequently bad scar formation.
If you are interested in the tummy tuck procedure or if you are planning to undergo it in the future, make sure that you will be honest with your surgeon. You have to tell the surgeon about your concerns. Be honest if you are asked whether you smoke or not. This is because you are recommended to stop at least 2 to 3 weeks before the surgery. It may be difficult for you to stop it but know that stopping yourself from smoking for at least two to three weeks will allow the body to clean itself from any harmful components of cigarettes that can affect the healing process.
Some patients who did not tell their surgeons that they are smoking got problems with their recovery. The incisions tend to heal very slowly, and many times they develop multiple areas of openings at the incision site, which will require additional treatment. Prior to any plastic surgery procedure, stop smoking. This will allow you to recover faster and have a better outcome after a cosmetic procedure. Do not expect a fast recovery if you haven’t tell your surgeon that you are a smoker. You have to understand that honesty will lead to even better results.
