If you've ever tried to quit smoking, you know how hard it can be. But if you're having surgery, kicking the habit is worth it. Mayo Clinic researchers say if you quit smoking before surgery, even if it's just the day of surgery, you will reduce your risk of certain complications.

Dr. David Warner is counseling this patient about the benefits of quitting smoking before and after surgery.

"We recommend that our patients stop smoking for as long as possible before the surgery, and then for at least a week after surgery," says Warner.

Cigarettes increase the level of carbon monoxide in your blood, and decrease the level of oxygen. Decreased oxygen increases your chance of heart attack. Smoking can also slow down surgical wound healing and even increase the risk of infection. Finally, smoking increases your risk of lung problems such as pneumonia.

"So if people can quit smoking they can actually reduce their chances of having these kinds of complications," Warner says.

He says the longer you can quit before surgery the better, but even if you just stop smoking the morning of surgery, your risks go down because carbon monoxide and nicotine only stay in the body for 8 to 12 hours.

"You told me earlier that you already quit smoking last night. You've already gotten through a day," he says.

Most smokers want to quit, and surgery is a great time to quit for good. Patients can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free counseling and support.

It's worth it. Not just to decrease your risk of complications after surgery, but also to increase your chance for a long, healthy life.

Dr. Warner and his colleagues are studying ways to help people quit smoking around the time of surgery. He says having surgery seems to be a great motivator for people to kick the habit.

You’ll find more information on quitting smoking here. Or visit the Mayo Clinic Website.

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On the Web:
Mayo Clinic Stop Smoking Services
Information on Quitting Smoking
About Stopping Tobacco Use