Why Your doctor wants you to quit smoking before surgery

If you've been told to quit smoking before a surgery, you're not alone—doctors frequently make this recommendation, and for very good reasons. Smoking has far-reaching impacts on the body, particularly when it comes to surgical procedures and recovery. Here’s a breakdown of why doctors advise this step and the ways it can help make your surgery and recovery smoother.

1. Reduced Risks During Surgery

Smoking increases the likelihood of complications during surgery. Nicotine and carbon monoxide can lead to increased heart rate, higher blood pressure, and decreased oxygen supply, making it harder for the body to handle the stresses of anesthesia and the procedure itself.

Quitting—even a few weeks before surgery—reduces these risks, giving your body a better chance of handling surgery safely.

2. Improved Oxygen Levels and Blood Flow

For any surgery, proper blood flow and oxygen levels are critical. Smoking restricts blood vessels and reduces oxygen in the blood, which can lead to complications during and after surgery.

By quitting smoking, you help improve circulation and boost oxygen levels, allowing your body to function more effectively and support the healing process.

3. Faster Healing and Lower Risk of Infection

One of the lesser-known effects of smoking is its impact on wound healing. Smoking weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of infection after surgery. It also slows down the healing process, as it interferes with blood flow and limits the supply of nutrients needed for tissue repair.

Quitting smoking gives your body a better chance of healing efficiently and reduces the likelihood of infections.

4. Reduced Need for Pain Medication

Research has shown that smokers may require higher doses of pain medication after surgery. This is because smoking can alter pain perception and cause chronic inflammation, which can lead to more intense pain post-surgery.

Quitting beforehand can help lower your need for pain medication and may make the recovery process more comfortable.

5. Long-Term Health Benefits

Finally, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health overall, and surgery can be the perfect motivator to make this lasting change. Along with making recovery smoother, quitting smoking can reduce your risks of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses.

Each day without smoking helps your body repair, making this a positive step for surgery and beyond.

Getting Support to Quit

Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but support is available. Many people find help through specialized programs, nicotine replacement therapies, or lifestyle coaching to overcome cravings and triggers.

I offer a laser acupuncture service designed to alleviate the physical withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking, giving your body a natural boost in transitioning away from nicotine.

Final Thoughts

If your doctor has suggested quitting smoking before surgery, consider it a proactive step to support a successful procedure and smoother recovery.

Quitting can reduce complications, enhance healing, and set you on a path toward better health—not only for surgery but for life.

Taking the step to quit can make a big difference, and you’re not alone on this journey. If you're ready to explore options or need support along the way, reach out—I’m here to help.