Many of you who smoke have been told about the risks. You might have even tried to quit before. It can be frustrating, and maybe you may still be working towards quitting. We’re here to support you.

Stopping smoking before your surgery can have a significant impact on the success of the operation and your recovery, and it will also improve how you feel for the rest of your life.

Why should I stop smoking before surgery?

Smoking affects your health, both before and after surgery. When you smoke, you’re more likely to:

  • Have a higher risk of complications and even death after surgery.
  • Experience more pain and a longer hospital stay.
  • Need extra care, like being admitted to intensive care.
  • Face issues with wound healing and infections.

Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for a quicker recovery.

For more details, see the Smoking and Surgery Factsheet (in PDF).

Other benefits of quitting smoking

Aside from improving your surgical outcomes, quitting smoking has long-term health benefits:

  • Better physical health: you’ll have more energy, breathe easier and improve circulation.
  • Better mental health: after the withdrawal period, many non-smokers report less anxiety, depression and stress.
  • Lower risk of serious illness: quitting reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes, lung cancer and more.

When should I stop smoking?

The simple answer is: right now. Stopping more than 8 weeks before surgery can improve your recovery. But even quitting for a short time before surgery helps.

Here’s how quitting at different times can benefit you:

  • 2–6 weeks before surgery: helps your body fight infections better.
  • 3–4 weeks before surgery: improves how well your body heals wounds.
  • 6–8 weeks before surgery: makes your lung work better.
  • 4+ weeks before surgery: reduces the risk of lung complications, like chest infections.

How do I stop smoking?

Quitting smoking can be tough, but we know it’s possible.

Remember that each craving lasts only 90 seconds, and withdrawal symptoms (like irritability) usually decrease after two weeks.

There are lots of ways to get support. Here are some things you can try:

  • Engage with your local Stop Smoking services.
  • Switch to vaping.
  • Make a list of reasons to quit and read it often.
  • Quit with a friend.
  • Get rid of things you associate with smoking, like ashtrays.
  • Treat yourself when you hit milestones.
  • Exercise to distract from cravings.

Studies show that people who use Stop Smoking services are three times more likely to quit successfully. These services offer free advice, support and encouragement.

Where to get help

You don’t have to quit on your own. You can get support in south east London from these Stop Smoking services:

You can also reach Stop Smoking London for additional support — tel: 0300 123 1044 (7 days a week)

For more information, visit the NHS Quit Smoking website or download the NHS Quit Smoking app (from the App store or Google Play) to track your progress.

You can do it!

It’s never too late to quit smoking, and there are plenty of ways to get the support you need. Take the first step today: your health and recovery will thank you for it.