Vaping may seem like a modern, harmless habit—especially compared to traditional smoking—but if you’re preparing for facial surgery, it's not without consequences. At Guelph Facial Plastics, we want our patients to experience smooth recoveries and exceptional outcomes. That starts with understanding how vaping can compromise your health before and after surgery.
In this blog, we’ll explain how vaping affects healing, outline timelines for quitting, and offer practical tips to help you prepare for a safer recovery.
How Vaping Impacts Surgical Healing
Surgical recovery relies on your body’s ability to deliver oxygen, nutrients, and immune support to healing tissues. Vaping—whether it's nicotine, marijuana, or even nicotine-free—can disrupt this process. Inhaled vapor irritates the lungs and airways, alters immune response, and makes anesthesia riskier.
Nicotine-containing vape products further complicate healing by narrowing blood vessels. This restricts circulation and limits oxygen flow, which can lead to:
- Delayed wound healing
- Higher risk of infection
- Poor scar quality
- Increased chance of blood clots
- Complications under anesthesia
Even nicotine-free vape products are not risk-free. The heat, chemicals, and particulates can still cause inflammation that weakens your body’s ability to heal.
Our Guidelines for a Safer Recovery
To reduce the risk of complications, some of the things we advise are:
- Stop vaping—of any kind—at least one month before surgery
- Avoid vaping for at least two weeks after surgery
- Disclose all vape use to Dr. Brace and our team during your consultation
Preparing to Quit: A Quick Guide for Patients
We understand that quitting—even temporarily—can be difficult. Here are some helpful strategies to support your success:
- Consider nicotine patches or gum (only if approved by your surgeon)
- Set a quit date and create a plan for accountability
- Use apps or online resources designed for vape cessation
- Seek support from your family doctor or pharmacist
- Replace vaping triggers with calming routines like walking, journaling, or deep breathing
Even a short-term break can make a significant difference in your healing process.
We’re Not Here to Judge—We’re Here to Help
Being honest about your vaping habits allows us to plan safely and support you in the best possible way. Your safety is our top concern. Some patients are reluctant to share their vaping habits, but hiding this detail could compromise your health. Our team wants to give you every advantage in achieving a smooth, complication-free recovery and the results you deserve.
Start Your Journey with Confidence
Vaping may seem unrelated to cosmetic surgery, but it plays a powerful role in your outcome. Taking a break before and after your procedure is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment—and your wellbeing.
If you’re considering facial surgery, book a consultation with Dr. Brace at Guelph Facial Plastics. We’ll review your lifestyle, help you prepare thoroughly, and set you up for success—every step of the way.
