Guidelines To Prepare You For Surgery
Preparing for surgery can be stressful. Here are some general guidelines to help put your mind at ease and make your surgery day easier.
You will need to bring a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, and an insurance card if co-payment is required. It is best to leave all valuables at home.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This includes candy, mints and gum. Alcohol can dehydrate; therefore avoid alcoholic beverages for 24 hours prior to surgery.
Do not wear make-up, lotion, powder, perfume, cologne, aftershave or nail polish (except for clear). You may wear deodorant unless instructed otherwise. Do not wear any metal objects, such as hairpins, jewelry and piercing jewelry.
Wear clothes that are easy to remove. Bring a case for your glasses, contact lenses and hearing aids. Denture cups will be provided at the hospital or surgery center. You may be given a garment to wear after surgery.
If your physical condition changes or you develop any kind of infection (fever, cold or flu), contact your surgeon as soon as possible.
You will receive instructions regarding which of your medications to take the morning of surgery and which to avoid before surgery. Typically, all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/ NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Naprosyn, BC, Excedrin, Goody’s Powder) should be stopped two weeks before surgery. You may take Tylenol (acetaminophen).
If you are going home after surgery, you will need to be driven home by a family member or friend. A responsible adult will need to stay with you for at least 24 hours after surgery to be sure that you are safe at home. You should not drive while on prescription pain medication.
Our surgery team will go over these instructions with you before your surgery to make sure you are comfortable and ready for your day. Write down any last minute questions and Dr. Aboutanos and her staff will address them at any time.