Smoking is not only harmful to general health, it also increases the risk of complications during and after surgery. We strongly recommend patients cease smoking as soon as possible prior to surgery to reduce the risk of complication.
Smoking can cause issues during surgery such as breathing problems, excess mucous and narrowing of airways during anaesethesia. Other complications from smoking include blood clots, pneumonia, lung collapse and reduced oxygen in the blood.
It is important that you do not start smoking again after surgery as it may prolong your recovery. Smoking increases the stress on your heart and lungs and can increase blood pressure. Smoking also reduces blood flow, with less oxygen & nutrients getting to tissues, wound and bone healing is slowed and risk of infection is increased.
If you need support to quit smoking, please speak with your GP or Pharmacist or use the resources provided by the many Australian Smoking cessation support services (links below). If you prefer to speak with someone over the phone, Quitline can be contacted on 13 QUIT (13 7848) and have trained counsellors available 7 days a week for support in your quit smoking journey.
Useful Links
Smoking Cessation - PDF (RACS)
Smoking & Surgery - PDF (Qld Health)
Quit Smoking - Australian Government Department of Health
Quit Australia
Quit Smoking - Health Direct
Quitline 13 QUIT (13 7848)