CIGARETTES AND VAPING-IMPACT ON PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURES
In recent years, vaping has gained popularity as an alternative to cigarette smoking. While many people consider it a safer option, its impact on general health and the success of surgery, remains a topic of significant concern.
E-cigarettes were promoted as a healthier alternative to cigarettes when they were introduced in 2004. Unfortunately, that isn’t turning out to be the case. Many studies suggest that vaping may have similar effects on wound healing and surgical success as traditional cigarette smoking.
First of all, most vaping liquids contain nicotine. Nicotine shrinks blood vessels and lead to tissue necrosis. In addition, recent studies have shown that there are high levels of toxic metals including lead, chromium, nickel and manganese in the inhaled e-cigarette vapors.
It is well-established that smoking before surgery can have a detrimental impact on the success of various surgical procedures, including plastic surgery. Studies have shown that smoking can lead to poor wound healing, increased risk of infection, and other complications that may affect the final outcome of a surgical intervention. As a result, many plastic surgeons require their patients to quit smoking for a certain period before and after surgery to minimise these risks.
In addition, based on the emerging evidence, vaping and plastic surgery may also not be a safe combination, and people considering cosmetic procedures should be aware of the potential risks associated with e-cigarette use.
I personally will not offer surgery to active smokers or vapers. But the good news is that if a person completely abstains from all cigarettes and other nicotine products for six weeks before surgery, their risk of wound healing complications approaches that of a non-smoker. However, once you have had your procedure, you are not out of the woods. The tissues are still healing, so you must continue to avoid cigarettes and other forms of nicotine for at least four more weeks.
Of course, for the sake of your overall health, it would be best not to resume smoking if possible.
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