Question:
Has the surgery helped anyone quit smoking???

   — scodorniu (posted on February 7, 2002)

February 7, 2002
I am not a smoker, but I have found that my anxiety has actually increased after the surgery, because I still have the same stressors but do not have food to use as a coping mechanism. I think you should be very careful not to look at WLS as a panacea to solve all your problems. (No offense intended.) Good luck to you--
   — [Anonymous]

February 7, 2002
Stop BEFORE your surgery. You want to get your lungs cleared out as much as possible before, at last a month and more, if possible. In fact, some surgeons will not operate if you are still smoking. I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, but you will be SO much better off post-op if you can stop before.
   — garw

February 7, 2002
Amen Anonymous! I was never a big smoker pre-op, just social, however, now that I don't have food to turn to, I find myself wanting to smoke more and more. I really do hope that you can get things under control pre-op and not go back post-op. Good luck!
   — Chloe S.

February 7, 2002
I have no had WLS yet but just wanting to have it has helped me to start on quiting i also know alot of dr will not do WLS if you are smokeing also it helps if your lungs are clean for any operation to help keep you from getting sick
   — wildbrat

February 7, 2002
My Dr. said I would have to quit at least 3 weeks before surgery.I have been smoke free for almost 3 weeks!
   — Shelby G.

February 8, 2002
I quit smoking when I started the process in September. I had been smoking for more or less 25 years but when I was told that it speeds up your recovery time that was all I needed. Nothing like alittle insiration!
   — [Anonymous]