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Tummy Tuck
Will I Have Necrosis if I Stop Smoking 1 Month Prior to a Tummy Tuck?
Smoking is a serious risk for complications prior to surgery. In addition to unbilical or superior abdominal flap necrosis, you also risk anesthesia complications including pneumonia. Usually a month is enough time to begin to minimize your risk. Remember, this doesn't only mean stopping smoking, but also avoiding nicotine gum, the patch, or other sources of nicotine which can contribute to problems. Also, be sure to have a plan for avoiding smoking during your recovery period. Many times patients can be at greater risk for relapse because you have increased downtime while your recovering and boredom or anxiety can contribute to the desire to smoke.
Clinical Context
Nicotine and carbon monoxide narrow blood vessels and lower oxygen delivery to skin and tissue, which is why smoking raises the risk of poor healing and tissue loss after a tummy tuck. The longer you stay smoke-free before and after surgery, the more this risk drops. Some surgeons use urine or blood tests to confirm you've actually quit, since self-reporting isn't always reliable. Avoid all nicotine products, not just cigarettes, since patches and gum carry the same risk.
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