Surgical outcomes are partly about the procedure and partly about the preparation. Here is what I want my patients to do before surgery.
Two to Four Weeks Before
- Optimize your health. Stop smoking - even temporarily. Get blood sugar under control if you have diabetes. Continue your usual exercise.
- Review your medications. I’ll tell you which to stop and when (blood thinners, NSAIDs in some cases, certain supplements).
- Plan your home. Move what you’ll need to a single floor. Set up a comfortable recovery spot near a bathroom.
- Arrange a driver for the day of surgery and for follow-up visits if you can’t drive.
- Stock the kitchen with easy meals.
One Week Before
- Confirm the schedule with our office.
- Pre-op visit if scheduled - this is when we review consent, answer last questions, and confirm any medication changes.
The Day Before
- Light meal the evening before; nothing to eat or drink after midnight unless I tell you otherwise.
- Shower with regular soap.
- Comfortable clothing ready for surgery day - loose-fitting on the operative side.
The Day Of
- Arrive on time. Bring your ID, insurance, and your driver. Leave valuables at home.
- Expect to be at the surgery center for several hours total - including pre-op, the procedure, and recovery.
The more you prepare, the smoother the experience.
