Rhinoplasty Recovery Guide 👃 - 33 - Smoking Before and After Rhinoplasty

How Soon After Rhinoplasty Can You Smoke?

Can I smoke after a rhinoplasty?



Smoking before and after rhinoplasty may have different adverse health effects. In patients who smoke, wound healing may be adversely affected, and the introduction of hot cigarette smoke into the nose may cause an increased risk of infection and tissue edema. In addition, carbon monoxide and similar products in cigarette smoke can adversely affect nicotine, tissue blood supply and healing process.

The damage of the cigarette after rhinoplasty can be briefly summarized as follows:

• Nicotine in the cigarette causes reduction in vessel diameter and reduced tissue feeding
• Carbon monoxide found in cigarette smoke directly cause the deterioration of tissue perfusion
• Particulate and burnt substances in cigarette smoke cause infection in the mucosal incision areas and increased scaling in the nose.

How long time you must be wait for smoking after the rhinoplasty

There are discussions about the subject in foreign sources. It is ideal not to smoke for at least 4 weeks especially after nose surgery.

I advise my patients to terminate smoking for at least 1 week before surgery.

 

How long before the operation of the rhinoplasty should stop smoking?

Smoking should be terminated at least 2 days prior to general anesthesia. If the cigarette is terminated 1 week before the rhinoplasty operation, it would be much better.

Understanding why smoking poses such a significant risk can help patients make informed decisions and ensure the best possible outcome from their rhinoplasty.

Before Rhinoplasty: The Risks of Smoking

Compromised Blood Flow

Smoking constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. This impaired circulation can significantly affect the healing process of surgical wounds. For a procedure like rhinoplasty, where delicate tissues and precise healing are paramount, reduced blood flow can lead to complications such as poor wound healing and increased risk of infection.

Increased Anesthetic Complications

Smokers are more prone to complications under anesthesia. The chemicals in cigarettes affect lung function and can lead to respiratory issues during and after surgery. Anesthesia is safer and more effective in non-smokers, reducing the risk of complications like pneumonia or bronchospasm.

Higher Risk of Bleeding

Nicotine increases blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to excessive bleeding during surgery. Excessive bleeding can obscure the surgical field, making the procedure more challenging and increasing the risk of post-operative complications like hematoma.

After Rhinoplasty: The Healing Process

Delayed Healing

Post-surgery, the body’s need for oxygen to repair tissues is critical. Smoking continues to restrict blood flow, leading to delayed healing of the surgical site. Slow healing not only prolongs recovery time but also increases the risk of noticeable scarring and infection.

Increased Risk of Infection

Nicotine impairs the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Post-operative infections can complicate recovery, potentially leading to additional surgeries or prolonged medical treatment.

Compromised Results

The ultimate success of a rhinoplasty relies on how well the nose heals. Poor healing can affect the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the nose. In severe cases, smoking can lead to tissue necrosis, where the nasal tissue dies due to lack of adequate blood supply. This can severely compromise the results of the rhinoplasty, leading to unsatisfactory outcomes and the need for revision surgeries.

Making the Decision to Quit

Given the significant risks associated with smoking before and after rhinoplasty, many surgeons advise their patients to quit smoking well in advance of the surgery ideally several weeks prior. This period allows the body to begin repairing itself and improving circulation, thereby setting the stage for a smoother surgery and recovery process.

Quitting smoking is undoubtedly challenging, but the benefits extend far beyond the success of a single procedure. Improved overall health, enhanced immune function, and better surgical outcomes are just a few of the rewards.

The decision to undergo rhinoplasty is often driven by the desire to enhance one's appearance and improve self-confidence. To achieve the best possible results, patients must consider the impact of smoking on their surgery and recovery. By quitting smoking before and after rhinoplasty, patients can significantly improve their chances of a smooth recovery and optimal results. While the journey to quitting may be difficult, the benefits—both for rhinoplasty and overall health—make it a worthwhile endeavor. Your nose, and your entire body, will thank you.

The information in this guide was prepared by Dr.Murat Enöz for patients who underwent rhinoplasty. 
You can find different opinions and suggestions from other clinics and doctors. Please take into consideration 
the recommendations of the doctors who performed your aesthetic nose surgery. Sometimes drug names given here 
only in Turkey may also belong to the drugs found. Plenty of luck :)

Murat Enoz, MD, Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon - ENT Doctor in Istanbul

Private Office:

Address: İncirli Cad. No:41, Kat:4 (Dilek Patisserie Building), Postal code: 34147, Bakırköy - İstanbul
Appointment Phone: +90 212 561 00 52

E-Mail: muratenoz@gmail.com
Mobile phone: +90 533 6550199

Fax: +90 212 542 74 47