If you’re scheduled for surgery and vape regularly, it’s normal to ask whether you need to stop beforehand. You might assume vaping is less risky than smoking, but when it comes to surgery, the concerns are similar—and in some cases, just as serious. Vaping can affect your lungs, blood vessels and healing process, which is why many surgeons advise stopping it in the lead-up to any operation, whether major or minor.
How Vaping Affects the Body Before Surgery
Vaping delivers substances—most notably nicotine and various flavour chemicals—directly into the lungs and bloodstream. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows your blood vessels and reduces blood flow. This can have a direct impact on how your body handles anaesthesia, your heart rate during the procedure, and how well your tissues heal afterwards.
Vaping also affects your lungs. Even though it doesn’t produce smoke, inhaling vapour can irritate the airway, trigger inflammation, and increase mucus production. This may complicate breathing under anaesthesia and raise the risk of coughing or respiratory issues during or after the operation.
Nicotine-Free Vaping Isn’t Risk-Free
Some believe that using nicotine-free e-liquids makes vaping before surgery safe. While it removes the vascular risks linked to nicotine, it doesn’t eliminate the other concerns. The vapour itself, along with flavouring agents and additives like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine, can still irritate the respiratory system and trigger immune responses—both of which are best avoided before a surgical procedure.
Risks Linked to Vaping Before Surgery
If you continue vaping right up until the day of your surgery, you increase the risk of complications, including:
- Poor wound healing due to reduced oxygen supply
- Higher risk of infection
- Increased mucus production and coughing during recovery
- Respiratory distress under anaesthesia
- Unstable heart rate or blood pressure
Even a single session of vaping the night before surgery can lead to airway reactivity, which is a concern for anaesthetists when managing your breathing during the procedure.
When Should You Stop Vaping Before Surgery?
Most surgeons recommend stopping all nicotine intake—including vaping—at least 24 to 72 hours before surgery. However, some procedures, particularly those involving the lungs, face, or blood vessels, may require stopping for a full week or more in advance. The longer you can avoid vaping before surgery, the better prepared your body will be to handle stress, heal efficiently, and lower the chance of complications.
If your procedure involves cosmetic work, such as liposuction, facelifts, or implants, stopping in advance is even more critical. These types of surgeries are especially sensitive to blood flow and oxygen levels.
Be Honest With Your Surgeon
It’s important to tell your surgeon and anaesthetist if you vape—especially if you’ve used nicotine recently. They aren’t there to judge you. The information helps them tailor your care, anticipate risks, and choose the safest approach for your anaesthesia and recovery. Not disclosing your vaping habits could lead to unexpected complications that might have been avoided with simple adjustments to your treatment plan.
Final Word
Vaping before surgery isn’t recommended, whether your e-liquid contains nicotine or not. It can impact your lungs, blood flow, and how your body responds under anaesthesia. To stay safe and heal well, it’s best to stop vaping several days before your operation and follow your medical team’s guidance. A short break can make a big difference to your outcome and recovery.
