How can I prepare for my surgery?

CAREFUL ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS WILL
HELP ENSURE YOUR COMFORT AND REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF
COMPLICATIONS.

• DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING
  (including water, mints or chewing gum) after midnight the day preceding surgery. Undigested food in the stomach can cause complications and your surgery is likely to be postponed if you forget.
• BATHE OR SHOWER AND BRUSH YOUR TEETH (TAKING CARE NOT TO SWALLOW ANY WATER), the morning of surgery. This will assist you in feeling refreshed as well as minimize the chance of infection.
• REFRAIN FROM SMOKING after midnight on the day preceding surgery.
• IF YOU SUSPECT THAT YOU ARE PREGNANT, please notify your surgeon. Anesthesia and medications may be harmful to the developing fetus.
• IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY HEALTH CHANGES OR ELEVATED TEMPERATURE between your most recent visit to your surgeon and the day of surgery, notify your surgeon.
• LEAVE JEWELRY, CONTACT LENSES AND OTHER VALUABLES at home for safekeeping. You may leave your wedding rings on.
• WEAR FLAT, comfortable slip-on shoes.
• WEAR COMFORTABLE, LOOSE CLOTHING. During surgery, you will wear a patient gown provided by the Center.
• BRING COMPLETED INSURANCE FORMS as well as your INSURANCE CARDS and medical information. Please check with your insurance company for pre-admission requirements such as second opinions and pre­admission certification. This will facilitate the admitting process.