I do not yet have a surgery date but I know I have to quit smoking before my rny. My question is how long before surgery do I have to quit? Is there like a general time limit or is every dr different? I've been a smoker for 8 years now and am having a hard time quitting! Help!

Hi Cassi,

I was in the same boat as you and quit 5/21/13. What helped me was focusing on the fact that either I quit or I would not get the surgery. That knowledge made me do it. As for how long, no one can answer that because every doctor has their own rules. I'd recommend you stop asap because I am sure there are doctors out there that will tell you they want you to have stopped for longer than others. Just focus on the goal, getting the surgery and losing your weight. The smoking will keep you from that. Good luck!

Hi to both of you.....Went to my "do's & don'ts," class yesterday. One of the main things discussed was smoking, if you are a smoker you need to stop at least six weeks before surgery and that will be your last time you should ever smoke. Smoking is the #1 problem that causes problems with the by-pass. My doctor(s) will help with whatever you need to help you stop, but before surgery you have to been clean at least the six weeks. I look at it as there are enough issues with bypass that can go wrong without me helping it along.

Get an electronic cigarette with low nicotine and ween yourself off. That's what i did. I vape now but with no nicotine. Best invention ever!

Thanks yall. I jus got a month supply of chantix. Hopin it works this time!

Don't be surprised if you get weird dreams while on chantix. I think it took it for a week and then couldn't take the dreams anymore and just quit cold turkey... It was a while ago though.

Don't be surprised if you get weird dreams while on chantix. I think it took it for a week and then couldn't take the dreams anymore and just quit cold turkey... It was a while ago though.

I have actually taken chantix before. I never had any dream or mood issues. Just baaad nausea!