Surgery and Smoking

Does anyone know what the rules are about quiting smoking before surgery? I am afraid to quit and then start gaining weight, but I have heard that you have to of quit of 6 weeks before surgery.

Hi tk.I have been smoking for 20 years and have been a 40 cigarette guy 2 pk a dayer.They told me to quit smoking and I have been wanting to for a long time now at least 2 years anyway.Ive never herd of the requirment of having to quit but I do know they want you to.So I decided to get the patch and it helps so much..The first week I went from 2pks to 1pk and now im down to about 3 cigs a day and sometimes I can go with out.So the hard part is over.I was allso afraid of gaining weight while quitting but actually I have lost a few pounds and I believe it to be just knowing whats gonna happen and consentrating on that more than anything.I decided that I was just gonna quit It would be better for me to definatly quit and maby not loose as much the sergeon would be much more happier with that.I recomend you get the patch and try it,it does work if you let it.I hope this helps and if you would ever like to talk just let me know..ok. take care mike

Hi all, The patch was the one attempt out of many that actually facilitated my success! I am now smoke free for 7 years and I used to smoke pack and half a day. Hubby is now 2 weeks smoke free thanks to the patch. WLS is a good trade off. I would trade cigs for surgery anyday ! Good luck to you all. Quitting is something you will never regret. Have not met a former smoker yet who has said they regretted quitting. No matter how many years you been doing it... it can be done. The PATCH really DOES help! Good Luck Angel J

Hi Tomasina, I believe that Kasier requires you to quit. It is the BEST decision. You will be feeling so much better when you do!!! Sarah G

I know. I have quit many times over the 10 years, but I am afraid of weight gain right now. I need to get 5-10 more lbs...

I don't smoke, but they tell you before they do surgery to quit smoking because smoking affects your health during and after surgery. I think it affects the oxygen in the blood and also I think it constricts the blood vessels. And they feel that if you stop that long for surgery, then why not keep off them from then on.

I just put it into mind it fells better to breath.That help alot with the patch. m.g