If you are a male smoker and are considering a male breast reduction, do not let the cigarettes keep you out of the cosmetic surgeon’s office. Almost any man, committed to stopping smoking for at least for a short time, may have a chance to move forward with the procedure. Currently, doctors recommend that men stop smoking at least two weeks before their Gynecomastia procedure. Then, stay away from smoking for at least two to three weeks afterward. This will allow the body to focus on safely and effectively healing the breasts.
The Hazards of Smoking During Gynecomastia Recovery
Still thinking that you will be able to sneak a few cigarettes before and after your male breast reduction? Who will know, right? Unfortunately, serious problems can arise if you decide to smoke during this time. Your Gynecomastia results will pay the price of a clandestine smoke break.
While not new information, it is important to remember that cigarettes contain more than 250 toxins. These include carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, nitric oxide, and nicotine. When you smoke, you put these chemicals into your body, and therefore, into your blood stream.
This affects your healing process as the nicotine causes the blood vessel to constrict, slowing the flow of oxygenated blood. This oxygenated blood is essential for the organs and limbs to survive. Constricted vessels mean wounds will heal at a much slower rate. The reduction in blood flow can cause cells to die. Called necrosis, this situation will require an additional surgical procedure to debride the area. This can jeopardize your breast reduction results and cause unsightly scarring.
There are other reasons to smoke smoking, as well. Studies have shown that smokers have an increased chance of developing pneumonia, or experiencing a stroke or cardiac arrest following a surgical procedure.
Help for Smoking Cessation
There is no better time to kick the smoking habit than right now, when you are planning on a medical procedure. If you are committed to abstaining from smoking before and after your Gynecomastia surgery, then why not turn those four weeks into forever?
Help with smoking cessation is at your fingertips. At your consultation appointment with your surgeon, ask him/her for their suggestions and assistant in walking away from smoking for good. There are several prescription strength mediations that can help you quit. Additionally, the next time you head into your local drug store, ask the pharmacist to show you the variety of over-the-counter aids for smoking cessation. These medications and patches can curb the urge to smoke, giving you the edge over cravings. Whatever smoking cessation plan you follow, be sure to speak with your doctor first.
Get the Chest You Have Always Wanted at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Paul Vitenas is here to answer your questions and help in achieving your desired Gynecomastia results. With more than 25 years of surgical experience, Dr. Vitenas has the skill and artistic eye to restore a natural looking, masculine chest. Also, if you need help with your smoking habit, do not hesitate to ask Dr. Vitenas.
For more information on the Gynecomastia procedure, contact Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery at 280.668.7370 or fill out our easy patient contact form.