Smoking Before and After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular weight loss procedure that involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This surgery has been proven to be effective in helping individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health.

However, many patients wonder about the impact of smoking on the success of gastric sleeve procedure. In this blog post, we will explore the effects of smoking before and after gastric sleeve surgery and discuss why it is crucial for patients to quit smoking to maximize the benefits of this life-changing procedure.

When it comes to cost-effective and safe weight loss surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, Jet Medical Tourism is your trusted partner. If you are a smoker and considering gastric sleeve surgery, it’s imperative to understand why you should quit smoking before and after surgery. Discover further insights on this topic in the following article.

Feel free to arrange a complimentary consultation with our compassionate patient coordinators by reaching us at (855) 506-6188 or filling out our contact form.

Do you have to quit smoking before gastric sleeve surgery?

Yes, you absolutely must stop smoking before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery. Smoking has numerous adverse effects on your health, and when combined with surgery, it can significantly increase the risks and complications. The bariatric surgeon will typically require patients to quit smoking several weeks before the procedure to minimize these risks. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and reduces oxygen delivery to tissues, which can lead to problems during surgery and slow healing afterward.

Smoking after gastric sleeve

After your gastric sleeve surgery, it’s essential to remain smoke-free to maximize your chances of a smooth recovery and successful weight loss journey. Smoking can have adverse effects on your healing process and overall well-being.

The impact of smoking on gastric sleeve surgery

A. Preoperative risks

Reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery: 

Smoking narrows your blood vessels, reducing the amount of oxygen your body receives. This can increase the risk of complications during surgery, as your body needs adequate oxygen to heal and recover.

Increased surgical complications: 

Smokers are at a higher risk of surgical complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, and other postoperative issues. Surgeons want to minimize these risks, so ditching cigarettes before the surgery is crucial.

B. Postoperative risks

Delayed healing:

Smoking is known to slow down the body’s natural healing processes. After VSG surgery, your body needs to heal the incisions and adapt to the changes in your digestive system. Smoking can impede this healing, leading to prolonged discomfort and potentially serious complications.

Increased risk of infection: 

Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that weaken the immune system. This makes smokers more susceptible to infections, which can be especially problematic after surgery when your body’s defenses are already compromised. Postoperative infections can lead to severe complications and hinder your recovery.

Impact on weight loss results

One of the primary goals of gastric sleeve surgery is weight loss. Smoking can undermine your weight loss efforts by affecting your metabolism and increasing your appetite. It can also reduce the effectiveness of the surgery in terms of reducing food intake.

Tips to quit smoking for gastric sleeve

Quitting smoking is a challenge but necessary step to prepare for gastric sleeve procedure. Here are some tips to follow:

• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups.
• Consider nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications to manage cravings.
• Identify your triggers and develop strategies to cope with them.
• Seek support from healthcare professionals who specialize in smoking cessation.

When can I start smoking after gastric sleeve?

While it’s essential to stop smoking before and after VSG surgery, it’s best to aim for a permanent lifestyle change. Discuss your smoking cessation plan with your healthcare provider, but remember that quitting smoking for good will benefit your overall health and weight loss journey.