16. What influence does smoking have on the healing process after surgery?
Smoking leads to a contraction of the blood vessels and thereby modifies the bloodstream. Thus, less oxygen gets into the blood and tissues. When the blood supply is reduced, the injured tissue heals more slowly.
Different doctors set different times for patients to refrain from smoking before and after surgery. Some recommend two to five weeks before and after surgery. Ask your doctor how long you should not smoke before and after surgery.