How Long do you need to be smoke free prior to surgery?

[Butterfly66 63]

Curious.

[lolawaiting 83]

My doc said 2 months but from the first time I saw him to my surgery wasn't even 2 months, so I was worried. I went to my pre admin testing at the hosp and they said smoke free for at least 24 hours!!! 24 hours!!! I think the most important part and why doctors say no smoking months prior is so you fully understand and are committed to NEVER SMOKING AGAIN!!! It WILL cause ulcers and land you back I'm surgery. It's not an IF, it WILL happen. I take a puff or two of an e cig if I really feel a need, but still go weeks without even that.

[Butterfly66 63]

Thank you so much. That was really helpful.

[Kris Cheek 13]

It actually depends on your Doc and insurance. I had BCBS and they tested me 2-3 weeks prior to surgery for nicotine and cotine. Cotine stays in your system for 3-4 weeks. I smoked for 30 years and did not want to quit so I studied it. I am happy to say that I am now smokefree since October! Good luck!

[lolawaiting 83]

I'm BCBS also, didnt test... Idk what the difference is... Best advice- do what your doc says!