Tag: Smoking before surgery

Studies show that smokers have a significantly higher risk of postoperative complications, including a 53% greater likelihood of serious heart and lung problems compared to non-smokers [1.3.4]. Understanding **what nicotine does to you during surgery** is the first step toward a safer surgical outcome and recovery.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has established clear fasting guidelines to minimize health risks during procedures. A common but critical query from patients is, "*Can I smoke if I'm nil by mouth?*" The unambiguous medical advice is to abstain from all tobacco and nicotine products during the specified fasting period.