I need to have back surgery i am down to 10 smokes a day how long will it take for nicotine to not show up and whats the best way to totally quit thos?

Everyone is: different but setting target date to stop and then stopping completely on that day can be effective. Learning some self-hypnosis can support this plan of action. Chewing gum or eating mints is useful, especially at high risk times like coffee breaks. Peace and good health. Don't know about the lab work. Please ask your doc.

Great job: Great job and keep up the good work! Non smokers do tremendously better with elective spinal surgery than smokers. It is generally thought that nicotine stays in your system about 4-6 weeks after your last cigarette. Non nicotine meds would be better than medications containing nicotine to help quit; Chantix is just one example. Don't hesitate to seek help as well.