Pre-Surgical Instructions

Having surgery can be a frightening experience. We understand that and would like to make everything as pleasant as possible for you.

When you arrive at the office the morning of your surgery, please keep in mind that there will be consent forms for you to read and sign as well as collection of payment.  Anyone under 18 years of age will need a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.

Please let us know before or the morning of surgery if a doctor’s note is needed for work or school.

If you have any specific questions that you would like answered before the surgery, please call our office before the day of surgery so we have ample time to talk with you.  We would be happy to explain anything you may be concerned with.

In order for our office to ensure your safety, we would like you to follow the following simple guidelines.

  • What to Wear – On the day of your surgery we ask that you wear comfortable loose fitting clothes and flat shoes. A short sleeve shirt should be worn in order for us to properly place monitors on you.  If you have any facial piercings such as a tongue, eyebrow, or lip ring, please remove before coming to our office to be sure there is no interference with the tools we may use.
  • Who to Bring – It is very important that you bring a responsible adult (18 or older) who cannot only drive you to and from your appointment, but also who will stay in the office for the entirety of your surgery.  We cannot perform your surgery unless there is an adult present and physically in the office.  We also recommend that a responsible adult remain with you throughout the day.
  • Antibiotics – You may be prescribedantibiotics that are to be taken as a precaution to ensure that you do not get an infection. Start taking these antibiotics one day before your surgery and take them as directed until there are none remaining.
  • NO Food or Drinks – It is vital that you do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your surgery. This includes water.  If you are having surgery first thing in the morning, do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.  You may take only a very small sip of water to take your antibiotic the morning of your surgery (just enough to swallow the pill).
  • Cleanliness – As with any surgical procedure, cleanliness is important to minimize chance of infection.  Bathe prior to surgery with particular attention to the head, face, and neck areas. Brush your teeth before your appointment.
  • Men:  Cleanse beard/and or mustache, or be clean-shaven.
  • Women:  Remove any fingernail polish and wear minimal make up.
  • Relax – Plan on taking the rest of the day off from any activities. It is important that you allow your body plenty of time to heal.  If you participate in sports or other physically demanding activities, please allow your body 5-7 complete days after surgery before returning to your normal routine.  Ease into anything physical to ensure a safe recovery.
  • DO NOT Drive – You may not drive for at least 24 hours after anesthesia. It is also important that you keep in mind that if prescribed pain medication, you may not legally be able to drive with it in your system, so plan accordingly.

NO CELL Phones are allowed in the surgery area due to HIPAA privacy. You will be asked to leave your cell phone with your driver in the reception area before being brought back for your surgery.

If you do not bring an adult with you or you have taken any food or drink within 6 hours of your surgery, we will have to postpone your appointment for another date. This is essential for your safety.

Please do not hesitate to call us with any questions or concerns regarding this information.