🫁Breathing Before Surgery
Healthy lungs help you recover more quickly and reduce the chance of chest complications after surgery. There are simple things you can do in the weeks before your operation to give your breathing the best possible start.
Why healthy lungs are important
During and after surgery, breathing can become shallower — especially in the first day or two. Strong lungs cope better with this and clear secretions more easily.
Looking after your breathing before surgery lowers the risk of chest infections, helps oxygen reach healing tissues and can shorten your stay in hospital.
Deep breathing exercises
Sit upright, relax your shoulders and breathe slowly in through your nose so your belly rises. Hold for a moment, then breathe out gently through your mouth.
Aim for around 10 slow, deep breaths, three or four times a day. Practising now makes it easier to do the same exercises after surgery, which helps keep the small air sacs in your lungs open.
Using inhalers correctly
If you use inhalers, keep taking them exactly as prescribed. Bring them into hospital in their original packaging.
Ask your pharmacist or practice nurse to check your inhaler technique — many people don't get the full dose because of how the inhaler is used. A spacer device can help.
Preventing chest infections
Make sure you are up to date with your flu and COVID vaccinations, and any pneumococcal vaccine you have been offered.
Wash your hands regularly, keep well hydrated, and try to avoid close contact with people who have a cold or chest infection in the weeks before your operation.
What to do if you develop a cough before surgery
If you develop a new cough, cold, temperature or feel unwell in the days before surgery, contact the pre-assessment team as soon as possible.
Sometimes it is safer to delay surgery by a short time so your chest can recover fully. This is a common and sensible step — it does not mean anything is wrong.
Benefits of improving fitness before surgery
Gentle daily activity — walking, cycling on a stationary bike, or swimming — strengthens the muscles that support your breathing.
Even short bursts of activity add up. Aim to feel slightly out of breath but still able to hold a conversation. Every improvement in fitness helps your recovery.
When to contact your healthcare team
Contact your team promptly if you notice a new or worsening cough, coughing up green or bloody phlegm, wheezing, a fever, or new chest tightness or breathlessness.
These things can usually be treated quickly, but the team needs to know before your operation.
Practical tips
- Practise 10 slow, deep breaths three times a day.
- Keep inhalers with you and bring them to hospital.
- Tell the pre-assessment team about any new cough or cold straight away.