Question:
How long should you not smoke before surgery?

   — Teresa D. (posted on May 14, 2000)

May 14, 2000
I have not yet had my surgery....still awaiting approval, but I have done alot of research and been to a seminar: They say to try and stop about 10days prior to the date of you surgery. That will decrease the chances of any lung complications.
   — Pamela L.

May 14, 2000
Hi..Teresa....I haven't had the surgery yet either but my surgeon told me to quit 2 months before surgery. I quit for a month and started back up from all of the stress from the insurance company. It is so hard to quit smoking, trust me! I am hoping and praying with this new insurance company, that I will be able to get approved. Then I will have to stop smoking once again. I can do it! My PCP gave me the Nicotrol Inhaler and it worked great. I started using that and by the 3rd week I didn't need that anymore. I wish I wouldn't have started back up but I did. Good luck and feel free to email me anytime.
   — Stacy P.

May 14, 2000
Quit smoking ASAP if you can. I did not and I regretted it. I had to deal with atelectasis and pneumonia following surgery. I am fine now, but my sister who stayed with me in the hospital said it was downright scarey for awhile. I do not remember it at all. LOL Beth
   — Elizabeth H.