Attn Smokers: Have any Pre or Post Ops NOT been required to quit smoking?

[Taterbugsmom 0]

Hello, I am just curious to see if any others have not been required to quit smoking prior to surgery? I have noticed many that post here were required to quit and am just curious how many weren't and if you are post-op what complications (if any) did you have? My Dr. does not require quitting prior.

I am not seeking advice on quitting smoking or the many health issues smoking causes so please don't take the opportunity to pounce me on how important it is for me to stop. That is an issue I hope to tackle one day but today I am struggling with my weight and my focus is on that. I however very much appreciate your concern for my health

Edited July 14, 2010 by Taterbugsmom

[btrieger 21]

I made sure my surgeon wasn't a smoking nazi before signing up. I ended up quitting 5 months before surgery anyways. I have since started again about 2 months after surgery. My PCP is pissed but my surgeon and PA both understand that you can't change everything at the same time.

I smoke now but I have to pounce a little. Not at all of the evils of smoking but it does slow the healing process and can affect the anesthesia.

You should try to quit 2 weeks prior to surgery and then if you must start again, wait at least 2 weeks after surgery.

Edited July 15, 2010 by btrieger
fixed double word

[KatieMT 0]

My surgeon suggested I quit, but it wasn't a requirement. BT is right, it does effect the anesthesia, and slows down healing. I know how hard it is to quit, I quit for about 5 months last year. I've been terrified to quit again because of the amount of weight I gained in those 5 months. I'm smoking now, but not as much as usual, and so far no complications.

[MollyRN 28]

I didn't smoke pregnant but I started right after my c-section and I did not heal well. I quit three weeks ago and my surgery in basically in a week.... I hope that is good enough.

[khrazyluv 0]

This is my second time around in the process because my surgeons require you to quit 6 weeks prior to surgery. I couldn't do it then but since then I found out I have emphysemia so I've been smoke free for 2 months and back to do the surgery.