Click on the FAQs below to learn about your surgery. They may guide you before, during, and after your surgery.
Before Procedure:
Are there any tests required before the procedure?
Pre-operative tests will be determined by your anesthesiologist or physician.
Will I be contacted by the facility prior to the procedure?
Yes. Your anesthesiologist or healthcare team may contact you a few days before surgery. The call will include instructions, health assessments, and answers to your concerns. You may also be contacted by the facility for any financial matters.
What should I bring?
- IDs and insurance cards
- Necessary medications
- A list of medications you are currently taking
- Payment of any patient responsibility
Is it necessary to arrange a ride to the facility?
Yes. After surgery, you will not be allowed to drive.
What should I eat and drink before surgery?
You will be informed of eating and drinking restrictions before the procedure. It is crucial that you follow these instructions as well. Otherwise, surgery may be canceled or delayed.
Is it okay to take routine medications on the day of the procedure?
Your physician will likely provide instructions regarding medications.
Is there anything I can do to help have a proper procedure on the correct site?
We always prioritize your safety. The healthcare team will follow a strict guideline regarding site identification and procedure confirmation. It is important that you also play an active role when it comes to discussions with your physician, anesthesia provider, and other involved staff.
What can I do to avoid site infection?
Take a shower the night before and the morning of the procedure. Follow these steps:
- Wash your hair with shampoo
- Wash your body with antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth
- Rinse well
- Dry yourself with a clean towel
- Do not use lotion, powder, or cream
- Do not shave the area of surgery unless instructed
- On the day and after procedure, make sure that you, your family, and caregivers wash hands often while at the facility.
What if I might be pregnant?
Notify your physician, nurse, and anesthesiologist before the date of surgery.
Day of procedure:
What can I expect when I arrive at the facility?
You will be checked in by our staff. You will go through a quick admission process.
What should I wear?
It is advised that you wear clothing that can be easily removed and stored. Do not wear any accessories and cosmetics. You may leave contact lenses at home or bring a case with you.
What should I do with my belongings?
Your belongings and clothes will be safely stored until you are ready to go home. We advise that you leave any valuables at home as well.
What happens after the check-in?
One of our nurses will do a pre-operative assessment. This will include taking vital signs and starting an IV if necessary. Your anesthesia provider will also speak with you. We will also keep your loved ones informed of your progress.
Is there anything I can do to help have a proper procedure on the correct site?
We always prioritize your safety. The healthcare team will follow a strict guideline regarding site identification and procedure confirmation. It is important that you also play an active role when it comes to discussions with your physician, anesthesia provider, and other involved staff.
What can I do to avoid site infection?
Take a shower the night before and the morning of procedure. Follow these steps:
- Wash your hair with shampoo
- Wash your body with antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth
- Rinse well
- Dry yourself with a clean towel
- Do not use lotion, powder, or cream
- Do not shave the area of surgery unless instructed
- On the day and after procedure, make sure that you, your family, and caregivers wash hands often while at the facility.
Prior to the procedure, will I see my physician?
Yes. It is likely that procedures will require that you and your physician confirm the type of procedure you will undergo as well as the surgical site of said procedure.
Before the procedure, how long can my family stay with me?
It will depend. However, having loved ones around can lessen the anxiety about the procedure. You may inform us that you would like to have someone with you.
When should I arrive?
You will be given instructions about arrival time during your pre-operative call. It is crucial that you arrive on time.
What if I might be pregnant?
Notify your physician, nurse, and anesthesiologist before the date of surgery.
Am I allowed to smoke?
No. It is advised that you avoid smoking on the day of the procedure.
Anesthesia
What are the types of sedation or anesthesia?
There are four main categories of anesthesia used during surgery and other procedures are general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, sedation, and local anesthesia.
Can I request what type of anesthesia I want to have?
There may be anesthetic options. You can ask the physician or anesthesia provider for the available options.
Will I receive any sedatives before the procedure?
You, your surgeon, and your anesthesia provider will develop an anesthetic care plan that may include preoperative sedation and other necessary medications.
What are the risks of anesthesia?
All surgical procedures and all anesthetics have risks or common side effects. The anesthesiologist will assess you before the operation and do every precaution to minimize your risk. We check every common symptom such as nausea and vomiting, sore throat, dizziness, tiredness, headache, muscle aches, and pain.
Will I be billed separately by the anesthesiologist?
You will have a separate bill from your anesthesia provider if anesthesia was administered.
Why should I refrain from eating and/or drinking before the procedure?
Refraining from eating and/or drinking before surgery will prevent the risks of aspirating gastric contents (complications related to vomiting) during your surgery that can be very serious. There will be specific instructions based on national safety standards that will be provided to you before your procedure. You must follow the provided instructions to avoid delay or cancellation.
After Procedure
What will happen if I am not able to go home?
In certain circumstances, your physician or anesthesiologist may determine if you need to be transferred to a hospital for additional post-operative care.
What if I am not feeling well once I get home after the surgery?
There are some things you can do at home to feel better. But if you are in serious pain or exhibit warning symptoms indicated in your discharge instructions, please call your physician, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
What are the types of food I can eat when I get home?
You can ask your surgeon for specific recommendations for your post-operative diet. In general, we advise that you eat lightly and to drink plenty of fluids. Please avoid alcoholic beverages.
What are the things I can do to prevent a post-operative infection?
Please follow your post-operative instructions carefully. If you have any signs or symptoms which concern you, please notify your healthcare provider.
When taking a shower the night before and the morning of surgery, kindly follow these simple steps:
- Wash your hair first with any shampoo.
- Wash all of your body using liquid antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth for each shower.
- Rinse well to remove all soap.
- Dry your body with a clean towel.
- Do not use lotion, cream, or powder.
- Do not shave or clip the area where you will have surgery unless your physician directs you to do so.
- Make sure everyone in the house wash their hands frequently to avoid infection.
Can my family be with me after the procedure?
Yes. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where a nurse will monitor your vital signs and make sure you are comfortable. Once you are awake and alert, your family can visit the recovery area.
How will my pain be managed?
We will assess you and provide a combination of different modalities to help make you comfortable – choosing from oral medications, intravenous medications, nerve blocks, injection of local anesthetic during the surgery, etc.
May I drive home?
Patients will not be allowed to drive after a procedure. You must arrange the necessary transportation arrangements. If you plan to walk or take public transportation, please have a companion.
Should I continue my usual medications after the procedure?
You should continue your usual medications after surgery. These instructions will be clarified with you before you leave the facility. If you have any questions, please call your surgeon or primary care physician.
How long will I stay after my procedure?
It depends. You will be monitored before you will be sent home, and if your health care team feels it is safe, you will be discharged from the facility.