Are Any Wrinkle Treatments Safe for Smokers?
We all know that smoking carries a high likelihood of negative consequences. It is much healthier to avoid the habit altogether. In addition to having an impact on overall health, smokers tend to experience aging at a greatly accelerated pace. “Smoker’s lines” around the mouth, premature deep wrinkles all over the face, dull and sagging skin are all consequences of regular smoking. Despite these drawbacks, it’s not so easy to just quit, and many people want to offset these symptoms with cosmetic treatments while they try to make the important lifestyle changes and stop smoking. Unfortunately, it’s not so simple to rejuvenate the face for active smokers. Are there any wrinkle and anti-aging treatments that are safe for smokers?
The Safety Issues
The first issue with cosmetic treatments for people who smoke is safety. Even if a procedure is not surgical, anesthesia may still be involved, such as for certain laser treatments. Complications with anesthesia are a known risk in people who smoke, and no reputable surgeon will allow those kinds of safety risks to occur, which limits the number of options available.
Poor Healing
The nicotine in cigarettes narrows the blood vessels and inhibits good circulation in the cells. This inhibits healing and makes the process take much longer. Results are less likely to be optimal when the body is struggling to heal, and even minor side effects like bruising and swelling can take a long time to resolve. Any wounds from treatment will have an increased risk of infection and the ability to fight off bacteria will be diminished.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
With all of this in mind, there are a few procedures that you might be able to undergo as an active smoker without too much risk. Injectable treatments are very minimally invasive wrinkle treatments, with only very minor side effects such as localized bruising. Botox and fillers can temporarily improve facial lines and wrinkles, for about 4-12 months, depending on the product. However, only a plastic surgeon can determine whether a treatment is right for you. More invasive treatments are off-limits to current smokers, for the reasons outlined above.
Benefits of Quitting
If you really want to pursue anti-aging treatments, then the best thing to do is quit smoking for good. Once you’ve stopped, you can pursue treatments a few weeks or months after you’ve kicked the habit. While it is possible to stop smoking before and after treatments and simply resume the habit once healing is complete, doing so will make the results much more short-lived. Do yourself a favor and preserve the results of your procedure by quitting smoking for good. For some people, plastic surgery is a good motivation to quit. There are many other benefits of quitting, including improved overall health and better skin quality.
Talk to an Expert
If you would like to explore your options for facial rejuvenation the best thing to do is talk with a reputable facial plastic surgeon and get advice specific to your situation. You will be able to have your candidacy assessed and discuss your needs for treatment. You’ll also get the opportunity to ask specific questions and decide on a course of action.
If you want to ensure you are getting the best advice and care possible, then you should always choose your surgeon carefully. A board certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Rami K. Batniji specializes focus in facial rejuvenation and can help you with your treatment plan. Dr. Batniji is one of only a few surgeons in the Newport Beach (949-650-8882) and Beverly Hills (310-467-2180) area solely dedicated to facial procedures. He has years of experience helping patients look and feel great. Call either location today to schedule your consultation.