I have to take a blood/nicotine test in a few weeks before surgery. i am only smoking 1 or 2 through a day but having such a hard time to stop since i stopped the patch.
10 to 14 days.
You should try to stop ASAP, though I know it's not so easy. If there is a center near your residence, take help from there. They stimulate some points near the ears for about an hour daily. It causes release of endorphins and helps you control the craving for the cigs.
All the best for your surgery and quitting smokes.