general-spine-photoThe team of surgeons and specialists at Frisco Spine take great pride in offering patients advanced treatment options for neck and back issues. This includes non-invasive and minimally-invasive procedures as well as state-of-the-art surgical treatments to restore wellness to the spine.

Whenever a patient undergoes surgery, we urge him or her not to smoke or use chewing tobacco. There’s an important reason for this, which we’d like to cover in brief right now.

Rest Is Crucial for Spinal Surgery Recovery

If you have undergone a spinal surgery of any kind, it’s important that you get a lot of rest as part of the recovery process. This takes the stress off of your back and allows your body to fully recover.

That’s why your surgeon will ask you to avoid certain kinds of activities as you are healing. Some things may make recovery less problem-free or less optimal, or it may actually increase your risk of complications.

Tobacco Products Need to Be Avoided

One of the things that can significantly increase your risk of infections and poor healing is the use of tobacco products after undergoing surgery. That means smoking cigarettes, smoking cigars, and chewing smokeless tobacco.

People who are smokers are urged to mind the habit in the early weeks after surgery, and kick it entirely if they can for their wellness in the long run,

The Effects of Smoking on the Healing Process

Smoking has been shown to increase a patient’s susceptibility to infections, which means that complications are more likely to arise if you smoke after surgery. In addition, healing times are increased if you smoke or use tobacco products while recovering from a procedure.

Just based on those two factors, you can see why it’s a good idea for you to not smoke if you’re a spinal surgery patient.

Stay Away from Tobacco Products During the Pre-Op Process

To get your body ready for the entire surgical process, patients should avoid smoking and using smokeless tobacco in the weeks leading up to surgery. This allows the system to be clean and and its healthiest before heading into surgery.

Refrain from Smoking as You Are Healing

Obviously after your surgery, be sure to stay away from cigarettes and tobacco, at least until your surgeon gives you the okay. It’s also a good idea to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages as these can also have a negative impact on your healing time and overall recovery experience.

Follow All Post-Op Instructions to the Letter

During the consultation process, you will receive ample post-op instructions which will help you heal quickly and avoid as many potential complications as possible. Be sure to follow all of those instructions to the letter, and to attend all followup visits with your surgeons to ensure proper post-operative care.

Speak with the Team at Frisco Spine

If you would like more information about spinal surgery and how it can help restore your health, wellness, and mobility, be sure to contact our neck and back pain specialists today. The entire team here at Frisco Spine looks forward to your visit and helping you look and feel your very best.

Schedule a Consultation

Skip to content