A study by the Medical College of Wisconsin revealed the correlation between smoking and surgery. According to the report, smoking prior to surgery affects blood flow to the heart. Those who smoked 24 hours prior to the surgery suffered from an insufficient supply of blood to the heart and this was twenty times more when compared to non-smokers or those who avoided smoking during the period.
Rhinoplasty surgery is performed to enhance the appearance of the nose and also set right breathing issues. Smoking reduces blood circulation as it constricts the blood vessels, which in turn, prevents adequate flow of blood to the surgery site. The lack of proper oxygen rich blood supply to the site caused an overall delay in the healing process. Necrosis, skin loss and scarring are other side effects of smoking prior to and after the procedure. The other complications that smoking after rhinoplasty can cause are
- Obstructed airway
- Asymmetry of the nose
- Bleeding that might last 4 weeks
It is therefore highly advisable to avoid smoking at prior to and after the surgery. It is also important to find an experienced plastic surgeon to perform the procedure. Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging types of plastic surgery. So to assure a smooth and fast recovery, remember to strictly adhere to your surgeon’s instructions.