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This year’s Great American Smokeout falls on Thursday, November 19. The American Cancer Society event encourages people who smoke to choose one day to begin their quit journey. If you’re planning a cosmetic procedure in the new year, that date could do more for your results than you might expect. At Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery, nicotine use is one of the most important topics we cover with patients before surgery. Here’s why.
Why Nicotine and Surgery Don’t Mix
Healing depends on healthy blood flow. Nicotine constricts the small blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to healing tissue. Smoking also adds carbon monoxide, which further limits the oxygen your body can deliver. For surgical patients, this can mean slower healing, more wound complications and scars that may not heal as thin or flat as they otherwise would.
These risks matter most in procedures that lift and reposition skin and tissue. A facelift, tummy tuck or breast lift all depend on good circulation to the treated areas while they heal.
It’s Not Just Cigarettes
Many patients are surprised to learn that switching to a vape, nicotine gum or a patch doesn’t solve the problem. As Dr. Koehler has explained on our podcast, it’s the nicotine itself that affects your blood vessels, no matter how you’re getting it. Some forms may be worse than others, but none of them are safe to use around the time of surgery. Cigars, chewing tobacco and nicotine pouches fall into the same category.
How Long Do You Need to Quit?
For many procedures, we ask patients to stop all nicotine at least six weeks before surgery and to remain nicotine-free for at least six weeks afterward. Your surgeon will confirm the exact timeline based on your procedure and health history.
That timeline is why November is a smart time to start. If you’re hoping to have surgery this winter or early spring, quitting now gives your body time to restore healthier circulation before your procedure date.
Why We Test for Nicotine
Because nicotine has such a direct effect on healing, our practice tests patients for nicotine before surgery. Even a single cigarette can produce a positive result. This isn’t about judgment. It’s about protecting your safety and the results you’re investing in.
Use the Smokeout as Your Day One
Quitting isn’t easy, and you don’t have to do it alone. The American Cancer Society offers free tools and support to help you build a quit plan, and your primary care doctor can talk with you about options that may make the process easier. Just remember that nicotine replacement products still count as nicotine when it comes to surgery.
Being honest with your surgeon about any nicotine use is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It allows us to plan the safest possible procedure and set realistic expectations for your recovery.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re thinking about cosmetic surgery in the coming months, a consultation with Dr. Koehler or Dr. Gardner is the best place to start. We’ll review your goals, your health history and a timeline that gives you the best chance at a smooth recovery.
Contact us online or call our Fairhope, Alabama office at 251-929-7850 to schedule your consultation today.
Author: Dr. James Koehler
A board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Fairhope, AL, Dr. James Koehler earned his MD from the University of Alabama and completed several post-doctoral residencies, internships and fellowships. He returned to Alabama to be closer to family and serve patients in the local community with a full range of cosmetic surgery procedures for the face, breast and body.
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