During early consultations, plastic surgeons often advise their potential patients to abstain from tobacco use in the weeks before and after their procedure. Cigarettes and smokeless tobacco can affect a person's circulatory system, slowing down the recovery process. A new report published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons suggests that certain lifestyle factors like smoking and obesity can lead to women needing their breast implants replaced sooner than is normal.
The study focused on patients who chose to have breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. After analyzing the medical records of over 14,000 patients, the researchers found that smokers were three times more likely to have early implant loss than non-smokers. Dr. John Fischer, the report's principal author, said in a press release that the study's findings could affect the way oncologists and plastic surgeons treat breast cancer patients.
"If a patient learns she has a high risk for complications with breast implants, she may choose to have a […] tissue based procedure," Fishcher said. "The risk might not be worth it, or, on the other hand, the patient accepts the risk," Fischer said in the report. "[…] Our main desire is to help improve the outcomes and care for breast reconstruction patients."
The result's of Fischer's research and previous studies highlight the importance of patients understanding how lifestyle choices can affect their health after surgery. Plastic surgeons who have their patient's best interest in mind may even postpone the procedure until the patient is in better health.
If you're looking for an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, who will take the time to help you reach your aesthetic goals, contact The Lett Center today.