Nicotine Test Before Weight Loss Surgery

by Barbare
(Maryland, USA)

I am scheduled to have gastric bypass weight loss surgery in mid-September. When I went for my consultation my doctor said that she was going to do a nicotine test a month prior to my surgery.

If my last day smoking cigarettes was May 22, would I be able to pass the nicotine test? I don't know if the test uses urine, blood, etc.

Please let me know, I really need this surgery.

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Nicotine Test Before Weight Loss Surgery

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Smoking after Gastric Sleeve
by: Molly

I am a smoker. I never head that you can't smoke before surgery. Is that just for bypass surgery or for all bariatric surgeries?

I expect to have the sleeve done, and soon. This is one of the reasons I am having my surgery done as a self-pay patient in Mexico. There are too many sticks to jump over in the States. They make us pay for their paranoia over being sued.

I'll take my chances in Mexico. These surgeons do nothing else, all day long. They don't have any patient requirements other than you having overall good enough health to tolerate the surgery and a strong desire to improve yourself through weight loss. I don't need to have a psychological evaluation first, although a lot of my friends think I need one!!!!!

thanks
by: barbe

thanks jeff, I was smoking less than a pack a day on and off and a lot of it was due to stress. I really need this surgery because i am diabetic and have hbp

Dangers of Nicotine Before Weight Loss Surgery
by: Jeff

Hi Barbare,

The amount of time that nicotine will remain detectable in your system after your last cigarette depends on how frequently you smoke and which test is used (i.e. blood test is more sensitive).

But the more important question should be how long prior to surgery is it "safe" to smoke? The short answer is, the sooner you can quit before surgery, the lower your risk of bariatric surgery complications.

The effects of smoking on your surgery risks in general - including the increased risk of life-threatening blood clots - can last more than 6 weeks after your last inhalation of smoke.

In addition, smoking after gastric bypass surgery WILL CAUSE painful ulcers to form in your stomach pouch.

Good luck with everything, and please continue to come back and keep us posted on your progress!

Take care,

Jeff

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