Shower or bathe the night before or the morning of surgery. Skin is the body’s first line of defense against infection.
Remove all make-up and do not use oils, lotions, powder, hairspray or scented products after bathing.
Remove all jewelry and body piercing (unless having eye surgery) before coming to the eye center. Do not wear metal hair clips or hairpins. Metal can interfere with the operation of some surgical equipment.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. If you are having surgery on your arm, hand, leg or foot, wear something loose enough to put over a bulky bandage. If you are having surgery above the waist, wear an oversized top that zips or buttons in the front. You may not be able to get the operative arm through a sleeve after your surgery. You may also want to bring a couple pillows and leave them in the car for comfort on the ride home.
Do not wear contact lenses. If you use glasses and or hearing aid(s), bring a hard case for their safekeeping. We provide containers for removable dentures and bridgework.
Leave extra cash and valuables at home and empty your pockets of keys, nail clippers, pocket knives, scissors and anything that can be considered a weapon. We cannot be responsible for lost property.
Bring a photo ID and insurance cards(s).
Please take all your prescription medication, as directed, in the morning with a small sip of water (NO MORE THAN 2 ounces of water).
If using an inhaler or medication for migraines, bring them with you to the center.
Bring an updated list of you medications including dosages for all prescription, herbal, inhaled and over the counter medicines.
Please arrive on time to the Surgery Center and check in with the receptionist. The time you are given for arrival is an approximate time. Sometimes surgeries are cancelled and we may need to call you in earlier or the surgery may take longer than planned and your surgery may be delayed. Your family or friend may wait in the waiting room.
You will meet with an anesthesiologist if you are having anesthesia.
An IV (intravenous) will be placed in an arm or hand vein id you are having anesthesia. The IV will provide fluids and/or medication during and after surgery.
Your surgical site will be identified, marked, possibly washed and hair removed before you go to the operating room.
You may be given an antibiotic to fight infection and/or medications to reduce nausea.
Sleeve like devices may be placed around the lower part of your legs to help prevent blood clots. These will inflate and deflate regularly to keep blood moving.
The operating room provides a safe and sterile place for surgery. The Staff will be wearing special clothing, masks, hair covers and gloves to prevent infection.
The average stay after surgery is 30–60 minutes depending on the type of surgery and your own personal recovery. Upon completion of your surgery you will be offered a snack and a beverage. If you had a general anesthesia, you may have a mild, sore throat. This will go away after drinking fluids. It is not unusual to feel a little sleepy, lightheaded or dizzy for several hours after your surgery.