Smoking and surgery?

Question

I'm getting my tonsils out in 2 weeks and was told not to smoke two weeks before the operation, but everyone i speak to say its not the case, u can smoke, surgeons just say that to get you to quit smoking for good and that it does not complicate surgery. Please let me know if anyone knows any further!!! thanks

Answer 1

Smoking delays wound healing. Smokers are also more likely to have breathing problems during surgery.

Answer 2

I had cancer and had to have surgery and I gave up for one month b4 and then went back after silly me should have just given up for good.  I suppose it is better as it lets you get more oxygen into your system.  Good luck recovering.  Have a good day from Sandy. Australia.

Answer 3

1) Smoking causes peripheral vasoconstriction which inhibits wound healing anywhere in your body.

2) The smoke itself is an irritant to your oropharyngeal mucosa which will further impair wound healing in your oropharynx.

3) Smoking makes you cough more. This is bad for pain control, hemostasis, and wound healing in the oropharynx.

4) Whoever told you that smoking won't complicate your surgery is a moron and you shouldn't be taking medical advice from them.

On top of all that smoking is bad for your overall health for many reasons. With the exception of uterine cancer, it increases your chances of getting pretty much every cancer known to man, increases your chances of heart and lung problems, increases your chances of going blind from macular degeneration, and increases your chances of someone like me amputating your legs because you have lost circulation down there and your toes are gangrenous. Next to morbid obesity and uncontrolled diabetes, and ignoring more acute instances of stupidity such as drinking and driving, playing chicken on a motorcycle without a helmet, or snorting large amounts of cocaine, smoking is probably the third most effective long-term method of shortening your lifespan and/or turning your 'Golden Years' into something closer to a living h**l. Then again, taking baths in benzene might be worse.

Answer 4

talk to your surgeon about your specific concerns.  ask for Chantix if you cannot stop on your own.