Question: I’m considering a skin rejuvenation procedure like dermabrasion or a chemical peel. I’m an on again, off again smoker. I know that doctors recommend quitting prior to surgical procedures to promote healing. Does the same apply to these non-surgical procedures? If I’m using a quitting aide, like nicotine gum or Chantix, must I be off of it for a period of time before undergoing one of these procedures?
Answer: Nicotine affects healing so smoking or any Nicotine containing gum or patch must be stopped AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to a facelift or many cosmetic surgery procedures. While it is absolutely necessary to not be on any nicotine before a facelift or a facial flap reconstruction, there is no absolute need to be completely off of it for dermabrasion or chemical peels but its very helpful to be off of nicotine prior to any plastic surgery procedure.
