OK, So I know smoking is a no no with the Lapband, and I HAVE quit. I've been real good too. Cigarettes don't hold a huge issue for me.

However, I know that at some point, I may slip up. I enjoy the rare cigar, and the occasional clove cigarette socially. (I some times go to places where there is a Cigars and chocolate event. I can resist the chocolate, but sharing a cigar with a friend? So much harder.)

What exactly is it about smoking that is so bad for the band? Aside from the bad health affects of smoking that I already know, of course.

Is it the tobacco that is the issues? Or the act of smoking itself?

Good luck to all you that still smoke. I was a smoker, but my dr rules were, no surgery unless you had been smoke free for min 4 months. We also had to sign a agreement concerning exercise, smoking and eating. The reasons are in there words, you want the surgery to get healthier, so smoking is not healthy, non exercise is unhealthy and overeating is unhealthy. They ask each month about these things and do the bloodwork every 6 months, if you fall off the wagon, I suppose you wont get anymore fills. Not complaining, All my numbers are good, plenty of exercise, watch every little seafood fork of food I eat from my little bread and butter plate, no seconds. 7 fills 7.0cc in 10 cc band. Very close to that sweet spot, maybe my next fill. I am very happy with my band and I treat it accordingly, I want it to last the rest of my life..(;.) Iwas really glad to give up those cigs after 20 years, Woohoo, we all need a reason to do something.:wink2:

Wow thanks for the information its really scary when you read the details. How do you feel since you were diagnosed??

I have never smoked and do not have COPD. :wink2:

Hey Gentlywind:

Thanks for this informative info! and WOW great new updated photo!!! It's a dream come true .isn't it?..I have to pinch myself. I feel like I almost look 10 years younger. You look fabulous!

Thank you.:wink2: Amazing what just 22 pounds can do eh? Too bad though my butt still won't fit in the avatar.:crying:

Hello,

My Dr. said that I need to stop smoking before the surgery, and then when I went in the week before I saw the PA and she asked how much I smoked and I said well I am down to about 2 cig's a day, and she said oh, ok, well it is not like you are getting the gastric bypass done, then you would have to quit!!! I am still smoking and I am fine.:tongue2: really I am!