Preparing for your procedure

Your provider will give you specific instructions for your procedure — these general guidelines apply to most cases. If anything below conflicts with what your physician told you, follow your physician’s instructions.

The day before surgery

• Drink plenty of fluids during the day. Stay well hydrated.
• Have a light dinner. Avoid alcohol.
• Confirm your arrival time with our office (we will call to confirm).
• Arrange a ride home — you cannot drive yourself after anesthesia.

Eating and drinking

Do not eat or drink anything (including water, gum, or hard candy) after midnight the night before surgery, unless your physician gives different instructions. This is critical for anesthesia safety.

Medications

Take medications your physician has approved with a tiny sip of water. Hold blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, Plavix, Eliquis, Xarelto, Pradaxa, etc.) only as directed by your prescribing physician — never stop these without their approval.

Day of surgery

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Leave valuables at home.
• Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and a list of medications and dosages.
• Bring a case for glasses, contacts, or hearing aids.
• Plan to be at the Surgery Center for 3–5 hours total — most of that is pre-op preparation and post-op recovery.

After surgery

You will spend time in the recovery room until you are awake and stable. A responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. Avoid driving, drinking alcohol, or making important decisions for 24 hours after anesthesia.

When to call us

• Fever above 101°F
• Heavy or bright red bleeding
• Severe pain not controlled by your prescribed medication
• Inability to urinate, or urinary symptoms that worsen
• Any concern that doesn’t feel right — we’d rather hear from you

During business hours: call (478) 745-6576. After hours: call the same number — our answering service will reach the on-call provider. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911.