How to Stop Smoking Before Your Plastic Surgery

How to Stop Smoking & Vaping Before Your Plastic Surgery and Why You Must: Tips & Techniques to Quit

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for complications during and after surgery. It impairs blood circulation, hinders wound healing, increases the risk of infection, and can even lead to breathing complications under anesthesia. If you’re preparing for a cosmetic procedure or any surgery, stopping smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure the best possible outcome.

Dr. Glenn Lyle, a plastic surgeon based in North Carolina, is committed to helping his patients achieve both aesthetic and health goals. One of the first steps to successful surgery is quitting smoking before the procedure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you quit smoking, including methods relevant to patients in North Carolina and the broader USA.

Why Smoking Affects Surgery

Before diving into how to quit, it’s important to understand why smoking can be so detrimental during surgery: 

• Impaired Blood Flow: Smoking narrows blood vessels and reduces oxygen levels in your bloodstream, making it harder for your body to heal. Many of the procedures he performs such as abdominoplasty, breast lift and facial surgery involve separating the skin from its underlying blood supply. So if that blood supply is compromised- tissue ischemia occurs and the skin can become necrotic ( die). The result  may be a scab of the incision line or wound separation. 
• Increased Risk of Infection: Smoking weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight off infections that may arise after surgery. 
• Slow Wound Healing: Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes reduce blood flow to tissues, which significantly slows down the healing process. 
• Anesthesia Complications: Smoking can also impact how your body responds to anesthesia, increasing the risk of breathing problems during surgery.

In addition, if you smoke, your body may have a delayed response to healing, leading to issues such as scarring, prolonged recovery time, or less optimal surgical outcomes.

Effective Ways to Stop Smoking Before Surgery

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you quit smoking:

1. Set a Quit Date and Prepare Mentally

Start by setting a specific quit date well in advance of your surgery. Ideally, you should aim to stop smoking at least four to six weeks before surgery. This gives your body enough time to clear nicotine from your system and reduce the risks associated with smoking. 

• Mental Preparation: Quitting smoking is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Understanding the benefits of quitting—such as faster recovery, reduced infection risk, and better results from your surgery—will help strengthen your resolve. 
• Inform Your Surgeon: Dr. Glenn Lyle and other surgeons can provide personalized advice and might even be able to help track your progress toward quitting.

2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

Nicotine Replacement Therapy is one of the most common methods used to help people quit smoking by providing a controlled dose of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. Various forms of NRT include: 

• Nicotine Patches: Available over-the-counter, these patches release nicotine steadily throughout the day. 
• Nicotine Gum: A fast-acting option for when cravings hit. 
• Nicotine Lozenges: Similar to gum but dissolve in your mouth, providing a quick dose of nicotine. 
• Nicotine Nasal Sprays and Inhalers: Available by prescription, these provide a faster delivery of nicotine and may be particularly helpful for those who have trouble quitting cold turkey.

3. Prescription Medications

For those who need additional help, there are prescription medications approved by the FDA that can support your quit-smoking efforts: 

• Bupropion (Zyban): This prescription medication helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms by altering brain chemistry. It’s often used for people who are struggling to quit smoking. 
• Varenicline (Chantix): This medication works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and blocking the pleasurable effects of smoking. It can be particularly effective for people who find it difficult to stop.

Consult with your healthcare provider or a smoking cessation counselor in North Carolina to see if these options are right for you.

4. Behavioral Support and Counseling

Behavioral therapy helps people change their attitudes and behaviors related to smoking. There are various programs and resources available in North Carolina that can support your journey to quit smoking: 

• Individual or Group Counseling: Many hospitals, clinics, and health centers offer smoking cessation counseling. This may be in person or through online therapy. 
• Quitlines: North Carolina residents can contact the North Carolina Tobacco Quitline (1-800-Quit-Now) for free coaching and support. The Quitline offers assistance in English and Spanish and provides resources to help manage cravings and stress. 
• Text Support Programs: In North Carolina, you can text the word “Quit” to 47848 to receive personalized tips and support on quitting.

5. Mobile Apps and Online Programs

Several free apps can assist with quitting smoking. These apps track your progress, send reminders, and offer support along the way: 

• Smoke Free: An app that helps you track the time you’ve been smoke-free and the money you’ve saved. 
• Quit Genius: now (Pelago)  A science-backed program offering personalized support with coaching, daily progress tracking, and tips for managing cravings. 
• QuitNow!: Tracks your health improvements, such as better lung function and improved circulation, as you move further away from your last cigarette.

6. Support Groups and Online Communities

Joining a support group can be incredibly helpful. It connects you with people who understand the struggle of quitting smoking and who can offer encouragement and advice. 

• Tobacco-Free NC: An organization that helps residents of North Carolina quit smoking, offering programs, support groups, and information on local resources. 
• Social Media Groups: There are numerous online communities, including Facebook and Reddit, where people share their experiences and provide mutual encouragement to quit smoking.

7. Mindfulness and Stress Management

Stress can be a major trigger for smoking. Practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques can significantly reduce cravings and increase your chances of quitting. Consider these methods: 

• Meditation: Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditation practices to help reduce stress and anxiety that may lead to smoking. 
• Yoga: Regular yoga practice helps you manage stress while promoting overall wellness. 
• Deep Breathing Exercises: These can be helpful for reducing cravings and regaining control when you feel the urge to smoke.

8. Lifestyle Changes

Incorporating healthy habits can make the quitting process easier: 

• Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce stress and improve your mood, both of which help in the fight against smoking. 
• Healthy Diet: Eating a nutritious, balanced diet helps your body recover more effectively from surgery and provides an alternative way to cope with cravings. 
• Avoid Triggers: Identify your smoking triggers and avoid situations that make you want to light up, such as social events where smoking is prevalent.

9. Gradual Reduction

If quitting cold turkey seems daunting, consider a gradual reduction approach. This involves slowly cutting back on the number of cigarettes you smoke each day until you stop completely. Some people find this method easier to manage.

10. Alternative Therapies

While research on their effectiveness is still ongoing, some alternative therapies may help with smoking cessation: 

• Acupuncture: Some individuals find that acupuncture helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 
• Hypnotherapy: Another option for those looking to address the psychological aspect of smoking addiction.

Final Words

Quitting smoking before surgery is one of the best things you can do for your health and your surgical outcome. The process may be challenging, but with the right strategies, support, and commitment, you can successfully quit and prepare for your surgery with the best possible chance for a smooth recovery. Dr. Lyle has observed that the majority of patients who quit smoking for surgery will do so for life.

Dr. Glenn Lyle encourages all his patients to stop smoking well in advance of surgery to ensure optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications. If you need additional guidance or support,  contact your healthcare provider for more resources.

Remember, the journey to quit smoking is a marathon, not a sprint, and every step you take brings you closer to a healthier, smoke-free life.

About Dr Lyle - Plastic Surgeon in Raleigh NC 

Dr. Glenn Lyle is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving the Raleigh, NC community at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center since 2002. With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in breast surgery and body contouring, including tummy tucks, to enhanc e patients' appearance after weight loss, pregnancy, and aging.  

Dr. Lyle completed his medical degree at Wayne State University School of Medicine, followed by a general surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts and a plastic surgery residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.  

Throughout his career, Dr. Lyle has contributed to the field through research, publications, and presentations at national meetings. His practice emphasizes patient safety and personalized care to achieve natural results. 

Ready to Rediscover Your Confidence? 

If you’ve been considering breast augmentation but were worried that you might be too old, I encourage you to schedule a thoughtful consultation at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Together, we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your options, and create a customized plan to help you look and feel your best. 

Don’t let age hold you back—confidence has no expiration date. Call us today or fill out our online consultation form to take the first step toward a new, more confident you. 

Next Steps 

If you’re considering a breast augmentation in Raleigh, NC, and want personalized advice about your suitability, recovery, risks and results, I’d be happy to meet with you for a consultation. Let’s work together to help you achieve your best results—safely and beautifully. 

To book a consultation please fill in the contact form or phone the office  at 919-307-8585