Preparing for Surgery

Do not eat or drink anything (including water, gum and mints) after midnight the night before your surgery, unless you are instructed to do otherwise. Undigested food in your stomach can cause serious complications. See instruction for children up to two under the pediatric section.

If you are a diabetic or take medications for your heart or for other specific conditions, you will be given specific instructions what to do the day of your surgery.

Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you to the Center, receive discharge instructions, drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours following your surgery. For your own safety and protection, you will not be allowed to drive a motor vehicle home. The only exception to this is for patients having a local anesthetic only (numbing medicine).

If you suspect that you are pregnant, please notify your doctor and our nursing and anesthesia personnel.

Please report to your doctor even minor changes in your health between your recent visit to your doctor and the day of your procedure, such as an elevated temperature, cough, or cold.

Leave all jewelry, cash and valuables at home or with the person accompanying you. We also suggest you wear casual, loose clothing. During your surgery you will wear a gown provided by the surgery center.

Refraining from smoking after midnight the night before your surgery will enhance your healing time.

Bathe or shower the morning of surgery to minimize the chance of infection. Brush your teeth but avoid swallowing the water.

Should you need reading glasses or contacts to read and sign documents, please bring the appropriate containers and/or soaking solutions with you.