What To Expect
Knowing what to expect before, during, and after your surgery allows you the peace of mind of completely understanding your procedure, how to prepare for it, and what to do once it’s over. We want to calm any of your concerns and ensure you feel comfortable and confident, as well as have appropriate expectations of the procedure and its results. We encourage you to ask questions, and we will take however long you need to discuss all aspects of your surgery. What you can expect varies, depending upon the type of surgery you are having, your age, medical history, and other factors, however, there are some commonalities during preparation, the day of surgery, and aftercare.
Before Surgery
- Make a list of questions to discuss with your surgeon, as well as a list of medications to provide
- Check with your health plan regarding costs and insurance coverages
- Schedule any pre-procedure lab work and consultations, as well as follow up appointments
- Fill out patient forms beforehand
- Arrange for transportation to and from the procedure, time off work and any necessary home care equipment
- Review and follow medical instructions regarding diet, medications, activity, etc. – now’s the time to ask questions if you have them.
- Prepare your home for a smooth recovery, including a place to rest with pillows books, phone, tv remote, etc, within reach. It’s also a good idea to prepare meals ahead of time and freeze them, and get your bathroom set up as conveniently as possible.
Day of Surgery
- You will be given instructions for the morning of your surgery regarding diet, bathing, etc. Make sure to follow them closely
- Have someone bring you to the hospital
- Typically, you will have your vitals taken and be given an IV and general anesthesia
After Surgery
The amount of time you will remain in the hospital depends on your procedure, how you are reacting to the anesthesia, and other factors. Recovery times also vary depending on your surgery and other variables. It’s important to discuss these specific expectations prior to your procedure. Some general aftercare instructions include:
- Follow care instructions carefully
- Keep incisions clean and dry
- Watch for signs of infection, including redness, discharge, and fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, call us right away.
- Stick to your scheduled follow up visits to ensure proper healing process
- Do not return to normal activities without your doctor’s consent