Question:
Stopping 6 weeks before sugery......Will that help?

I have stopped smoking 6 weeks before my surgery. Do you think I will have any problems? Are my chances with breathing, better stopping 6 weeks before surgery? I have done what I'm supposed to but I can't help being worried about this. Please help!    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 10, 2000)

August 10, 2000
HI, I smoke quit a bit and was told by my surgeon that I would need to quit AT LEAST a month before surgery..Hope this answers your question~`
   — Violet K.

August 10, 2000
Congratulation on quitting! I believe this depends on your general health prior to surgery. But if it makes you feel any better, I didn't quit smoking and came through fine...however, I'm also extremely healthy, have very nice lungs for some reason, and my only co-morb is arthritic knees. I had the same breathing exercises as the other patients, with the exception of additional treatment with Aerobid (for asthmatics, which I'm not - just a precaution), and robitussin, so I wouldn't have any uncontrolled coughing fits. PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT SUGGESTING THAT NOT QUITTING BEFORE SURGERY IS A GOOD IDEA! I'm very proud of all you that have quit and realize I was very lucky to have that particular angel on my shoulder. Good luck to you, you'll be fine!
   — Allie B.