Home > Our residents > Your health > Waiting well for surgery > Preparing your physical and mental health for surgery > Stopping smoking

Many of you who smoke have been told about the risks. You might have even tried to quit before or are still working towards quitting.

We know it’s incredibly hard and so we’re here to support you. 

Why should I stop smoking before surgery? 

Stopping smoking will have the single biggest benefit to the success of your operation and recovery.   It will also improve how you feel for the rest of your life! 

People who continue to smoke before and after their surgery:  

  • have a 50 % higher risk of complications after surgery like poor wound healing, chest and wound infections, blood clots and even death. This also means that smokers on average stay in hospital for 20% longer after their operations. 
  • experience greater pain after surgery 
  • more often need extra medical support after surgery, like being admitted to an intensive care unit. 

Are there any other benefits of quitting smoking?

Aside from improving your outcomes from surgery, quitting smoking has longer-term benefits: 

  • better physical health: more energy, easier breathing and a much lower risk of very serious problems like cancer, heart disease or lung disease
  • better mental health: after the withdrawal period, many non-smokers report less anxiety, depression and stress
  • better health of those around you from reducing passive smoking 
  • better financial health!  

When should I stop smoking? 

The best and most 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.

Quitting

  • 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:

  • engage with your local Stop Smoking services (see below!)
  • 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.

Where can I get help?

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.

Try these for support that suits you: 

You really can do it! 

 It is never too late to quit smoking. Take the first step today: your health and recovery will thank you for it.