Question for you all!?!?!?

Okay this is just a question that a friend of mine has who is thinkin about haing the RNY how important is quitting smoking before surgery??

I'm not a smoker, but my surgeon won't operate on smokers because of the increased rate of complications. When I heard the list of possible complications, I was pretty scared. I'm sure any surgeon would be happy to speak with your friend about the reasons to quit. Best wishes for your surgery next week!

My surgeon's PA did not seemed all that concerned about smoking. I have heard all kinds of stories, varying from testing hair follicles for liars, to not caring much. Smoking hinders blood flow, and hence causes slower healing. So, if you want to heal fast....quit smoking. I am sure people lie and cheat all the time. But someone who is going in for this life changing surgery, IMHO, needs to be honest and truthful if they plan to be successful at this surgery! Hope that helps! Heather C. RNY soon on 12/31/07

My doc went so far as to say that I needed to stay away from my husband or any smoker while they are smoking. I guess it does so many things it is not worth the risk. If you are willing to get the surgery, this is life altering and you must be willing to make LOTS of permanent changes. Let me tell you from my own experiences, this is the greatest thing I could have ever done for myself, but kid you not, it is also hard. Good luck for your friend. Jeannie

I can tell you first hand. I have worked in ICU for 28 yrs. Smokers are much harder to get off the breathing machine postop, and have a much higher incidence of postop complications.

Hi Angela, My RNY is scheduled for 12/27 but I did my pre-op tests today...including a blood test for nicotine. I haven't smoked since 2/04 so it's not an issue now but it does indicate that smoking IS an issue and the surgeon doesn't want to take chances. Probably a great time to address all addictive behaviors while making life changes for the better and getting healthy on many levels... Wish your friend the best of luck in building a new, healthier life!

I was told I had to be off nicotine for 2 months before my doctor would operate . . . so that day (Oct. 3) I quit cold turkey . . . along with caffine and carbonation .. . also things he says no to . . . and I had my lapband surgery on Dec. 3 .. . and feelin' better all the time! Chris

I had my RNY in July of 2006 and I smoked the morning of surgery before I went in and after surgery with out any problems my Dr gave me the patch while in the hospital