Before Hand Surgery

Before the Procedure

Eating before surgery

Remember not to eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your surgery, or as directed by your anesthesiologist. This includes water, breath mints and even chewing gum. Having food in your stomach can create a risk during surgery.

Medications

Consult your doctor about whether you should discontinue taking regularly scheduled medication, herbal products or aspirin prior to surgery. If you are advised to continue taking your medication, you should take it with only a sip of water. Do not take any aspirin or any aspirin-containing products at least seven days prior to your surgical procedure. This includes any anti-inflammatory medications. If you have any questions regarding this or any medication you are currently taking on a regular basis, please call and speak to your physician's nurse or medical practitioner.

Plan to arrive early for surgery

You must plan to arrive at the hospital at least two hours prior to your scheduled surgery time. Your surgery coordinator will call you with this time one day prior to your surgery date.

Arrange for a ride after surgery

Be sure to make arrangements in advance to have a responsible adult drive you home and be available to you after surgery. You will not be able to drive yourself home nor can you use a taxi. Please make arrangements for someone to drive you.

Questions about anesthesia?

Your anesthesiologist may call you the night before your surgery to answer any questions you have regarding anesthesia. Your surgery coordinator does not know who the anesthesiologist will be and cannot answer questions pertaining to anesthesia or anesthesia billing.

Other information

Do not sunbathe at least one week prior to surgery due to the risk of sunburn. Refrain from smoking after midnight and during the day of your surgery.

Learn more about preparing for your surgery.