Vaping is not a safe alternative before gastric bypass surgery. Your doctor wants you to quit smoking because nicotine, whether from cigarettes, vapes, or nicotine patches, can increase the risk of serious complications. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the stomach, which can impair healing and lead to issues like ulcers or leaks where the stomach is stapled. Additionally, nicotine raises the risk of blood clots, which are already more common after surgery. Vaping can also irritate the lungs, increasing the risk of pneumonia and breathing problems under anesthesia. While vaping is sometimes used as a way to quit smoking, it still contains nicotine and other harmful chemicals that could interfere with the healing process. If you’re having difficulty quitting, ask your doctor about nicotine-free options, such as medications like Chantix or Wellbutrin, or other nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gum. These methods can help you taper off nicotine before surgery.