Quitting smoking or vaping can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding steps toward better health. Despite the widely known risks to skin health, vascular function, and overall well-being, nicotine addiction is notoriously hard to overcome. At Absolute Cosmetic, we understand the importance of addressing these challenges with a variety of effective strategies.
In this blog, we’ll explore why quitting can be so difficult and highlight innovative approaches, including clinical hypnosis and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), to help make the journey more manageable.
Why Is Quitting Smoking or Vaping So Challenging?
Nicotine is a powerful substance that creates both chemical dependency and behavioural habits. Many people find themselves in a cycle of dependency where both the physical act and the effects of nicotine become deeply ingrained in daily routines.
Key factors include:
- Nicotine’s Reinforcement Cycle: Nicotine releases dopamine, reinforcing both the habit and dependency.
- Behavioural Triggers: Smoking or vaping often becomes linked with routines, emotions, or stress relief.
- Withdrawal Challenges: Quitting can lead to irritability, mood dips, and intense cravings due to a sudden drop in dopamine levels.
Innovative Approaches to Quitting
1. Clinical Hypnosis
Clinical hypnosis, developed by experts like Dr. David Spiegel at Stanford University, is a technique that empowers individuals to focus their mental resources toward specific goals, such as smoking cessation. Unlike stage hypnosis, clinical hypnosis helps individuals take an active role in changing their behaviour.
Research shows that just one session of clinical hypnosis can significantly improve success rates for quitting smoking. While cold turkey attempts succeed only 5% of the time, hypnosis raises this rate to approximately 23%. Accessible tools like the Reveri app make this option more widely available, offering guided sessions that mirror in-clinic approaches.
2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
NRT helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms by providing controlled amounts of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes or vape pens. Options include:
- Patches: Provide a steady release of nicotine throughout the day.
- Gum or Nasal Sprays: Offer more immediate relief for cravings.
Combining these methods and gradually reducing nicotine intake can be particularly effective.
3. Pharmacologic Support
Medications such as bupropion may also be prescribed to help manage withdrawal symptoms. These treatments work by supporting dopamine levels, reducing the mood dips often associated with quitting. However, pharmacologic options should always be discussed with a healthcare professional to ensure suitability.
Personalised Support for Lasting Results
Quitting smoking or vaping is a deeply personal journey, and the right approach varies from person to person. Combining multiple strategies, including behavioural tools, pharmacologic support, and clinical guidance, can improve the chances of long-term success.
Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is partially based on insights from the included video.
A Message from Dr. Murray
At Absolute Cosmetic Medicine, your safety and well-being are our highest priorities. Quitting smoking, vaping, and avoiding passive smoking are critical steps in reducing surgical risks and enhancing recovery. Nicotine consumption during the surgical process significantly increases the risk of complications, including infection, delayed healing, and unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes.
It is imperative to strictly avoid smoking, vaping, and illicit drug use before, during, and after your procedure. All patients are required to adhere to the following pre-operative and post-operative guidelines:
- Cease smoking, vaping, and passive smoking at least four weeks prior to your procedure and for six to eight weeks post-operatively.
- Understand that reducing nicotine intake alone does not eliminate the risks; quitting entirely is the best way to minimise complications and improve outcomes.
We strongly encourage the use of nicotine cessation aids during this period to support your efforts. Your GP is a valuable resource for creating a personalised quit-smoking plan, which may include prescriptions, local support programs, and additional guidance to ensure success.
To uphold our commitment to patient safety, we maintain a stringent cancellation policy. If you have smoked, vaped, or been exposed to passive smoking within four weeks prior to your procedure, your cosmetic surgery will be cancelled, and any payments made will not be refunded.
This policy is in place to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient. For more information about potential complications and guidance on quitting smoking, please refer to the resources provided or speak with your GP.
The Absolute Cosmetic team and I are here to support you throughout this process, helping to ensure that your procedure and recovery are as smooth and successful as possible. Taking these steps not only enhances your cosmetic surgery results but also benefits your long-term health and well-being.
ABSOLUTE COSMETIC, PERTH, W.A.
Operating out of five clinics across Perth, ABSOLUTE COSMETIC is a testament to the dedication and experience of Medical Director Dr. Glenn Murray and Director of Nursing Stephanie Murray. With over 20 years of full-time experience in aesthetic medicine under their belt, a holistic approach to aesthetic care includes a range of treatments, including non-surgical options to surgical procedures performed in our Class B Day Hospital, licensed by the WA Department of Health.
