Many of us know the health risks associated with tobacco smoking. There’s a heart attack, stroke, lung cancer, COPD, and other respiratory problems.
But did you know that the health complications from smoking are tripled or quadrupled when combined with bariatric surgery? The team at Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons in Knoxville wants patients to understand why Bariatric Surgery and tobacco don’t mix.
Why does it happen?
Tobacco smoking causes the constriction (shrinking) of the blood vessels to your new stomach.
Smoking also produces carbon monoxide, which reduces the ability of your red blood cells to carry oxygen. All of these can slow down healing and make you more prone to other post-surgical complications.
People who smoke are also more likely to develop blood clots, which can cause stroke and heart attack.
Quitting Smoking Before Bariatric Surgery
If you are a smoker and considering bariatric surgery, your surgeon will recommend that you stop smoking before your procedure.
Quitting smoking weeks before bariatric surgery can significantly decrease your risk of complications.
After surgery, it is also best for you to continue being smoke and tobacco-free.
It helps you recover faster and it will make it easier for you to adjust to your dietary changes and other habits post-surgery.
A smoke-free lifestyle, coupled with the right diet and regular physical activity can help you achieve long-term weight loss success.
Is bariatric surgery right for you?
If you’re wondering if bariatric surgery is right for you or if you have other questions regarding bariatric surgery, Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons, view our free online seminar at http://seminar.foothillsweightloss.com/. It’s the first step towards a healthier you!
Foothills Weight Surgeons is part of Premier Surgical Bariatrics in Knoxville, TN. Foothills is affiliated with Fort Sanders Center for Bariatric Surgery, a member of Covenant Health Bariatric Services.
References:
https://www.limarp.com/blog/2018/01/19/smoking-and-bariatric-surgery-do-188703