smokers
I encourage all my smoking patients to stop prior to surgry. Many WLS surgeons indeed require it. As you know stopping is difficult but many people do do it.
You might consider the following idea: Stop before the surgery, most patients can stop for several weeks, it is not returning that is so hard. This holiday will, I'm told, make recovery a bit easier. Perhaps the excitment of losing weight will help you stay on track.
Remember there are meds, gums even counseling to help.
Good luck!
Dr Mike
P.S. Don't kid yourself, stopping after surgery when you have so many changes to make with respect to your diet would be even harder than sopping before!
Michael L. Sakowitz, Ph.D. is a psychologist (NJ 35SI00148700) and member of ObesityHelp's Mental Health Board. By posting, he makes no promises, guarantees, representations, or warranties, expressed or implied, and assumes no duty or liability with regard to the information contained herein. This post is not intended to diagnose or treat any physical or mental condition. No professional services are being rendered and nothing is intended to provide such services or advice of any kind. No website or informational post can take the place of seeking professional help. If you need professional help of any kind, please seek the services of a professional or dial 911.
I WISH I did! I smoked much less in attempt to quit (from 2 packs to 1/2 a pack daily) but never actually got there. If you are still smoking, you need to let your anesthesiologist and surgeon know. Your recovery will be harder because you'll be in the hospital for "X" amount of days without a cigarette... that means smokers cough... and coughing HURTS right after surgery. Also, if you continue to smoke AFTER surgery, you usually will have to take anti-ulcer medication for as long as you are still smoking. Smokers are prone to ulcers post op.
Hope that helps!
-Janine
My boys are 3 reasons why WLS was right for me! I love my post op miracles =o)
I quit, I was given a surgery date on 4/28. They told told me I had to quit, I walked out of there and have not had a single cigarrette since. I have been the biggest ***** since then, but everyone knows I quit so I just walk around apologizing, I think the Drs like to test your will power. I am totally freaking out about the surgery and all of the preparation, all I want to do is smoke, I JUST DON'T!!! I know everyone says it is so hard to quit but if you want something bad enough you will quit! I smoked 2 packs a day for about 8 years and just stopped. If I can do you can too!
Most Active
Recent Topics
