To be a good candidate for a body procedure like a thigh lift or arm lift, it's imperative that you commit to going at least several weeks of avoidance. This goes for smoking as well as nicotine consumption. Dr. Kunkel may advise you to stop smoking no less than six weeks prior to surgery and to maintain cessation for another six weeks after your procedure. This is because smoking and nicotine use can increase surgical risks and also impair your healing after surgery. The consumption of nicotine can increase your blood pressure and inhibit the full absorption of nutrients that are needed to help your skin heal after a lift. Furthermore, smoking and nicotine can accelerate the aging process, limiting the amount of time you get to enjoy the full effects of your new body contours.