Preparing for Surgery

The Day Before Surgery

• Drink eight to 10 glasses of water throughout the day.
• Please refrain from or reduce cigarette smoking 12 hours before surgery. Smoking can increase post-surgery nausea. Not smoking also improves the blood’s oxygen supply.
• Plan to arrive an hour and a half before your scheduled appointment.

The Evening Before Surgery

• Do not eat any food or drink any fluids (including hard candy, mints, cough drops, gum and water) after midnight to help prevent complications during and after surgery.
• Eat a light dinner unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Avoid spicy and greasy foods.
• Take a shower or bath.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages which can cause post-surgery vomiting.

The Day of Surgery

• Take a shower or bath if you did not take one the evening before.
• Brush your teeth but do not swallow water. Good hygiene helps prevent post-surgery wound infections.
• Take only medicines prescribed by your physician with a small sip of water.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital. Bring pajamas and a robe to wear home.
• Do not apply makeup.
• Remove polish from fingernails and toenails.
• Remove contact lenses, hairpieces and all piercings.
• Leave any valuables such as money, jewelry, watches and rings at home.
• Bring a pillow and blanket for the ride home.
• Arrive an hour and a half before surgery and report to the East Main Entrance.
• If you’ll be admitted to the hospital after surgery, leave your suitcase in the car. Someone can bring it to you once you are assigned a room.