Pre-Op with question about smoking??

Hi again everyone, I have a question about God and insurance willing I am scheduled for surgery on July 28th. I have been a smoker for about 16 yrs now and I know I must quit not only for my health but becasue of the risks with surgery. Besides lifelong issues with obesity smoking is a major addiction in my life for a very long time and I am having a hard time coming to terms with the quitting. I am quitting Monday!!! WooHoo!! How long do u have 2bsmoke free before having surgery? I'm thinking I should schedule my surgery for August, so I will have 2 months cigarette free opposed to one month. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated

You really need to discuss this with your doctor. Different doctors want their patients to be smoke free for different periods of time. Irene

I'm so glad I quit three years ago. I was a heavy smoker for 30+ years and Susan, if I could quit, so can you!! It wasn't easy, but I went into it knowing it wouldn't be easy. Get past the first 3 or 4 days, and it gets easier. I got plastic straws that I cut to cigarette length and used just like cigarettes. The deep breathing really helped with the stress. I still keep a straw or two in the car and in my purse. You can do it Susan, and it will be worth it.

I KNOW I'll catch heat for this but, I quit a week before surgery. I was doing great until about 2 weeks ago and I'm back to it....not as much as before, though. I am someone who actually enjoys it, stupid as it may sound. Debbie

Debbie, you won't catch heat from me about this, because I'm a former smoker and I quit more than once. I know how hard it is to stop. Anyhow, my doctor can tell from the blood gases or something if you've been smoking anytime within 2 or more weeks before surgery. In other words, if you had my surgeon, he would have sent you home (and he HAS done that). That's why I suggested that Susan check with her surgeon. irene

You really should ask your Dr. Mine will not do surgery unless you have not been smoking for months !!!! I quit 4 years ago so I know how hard it is but I can say that even though I put on like 50 lbs. because I quit smoking. I still feel better having stoped !!!! GOOD LUCK Laura