Anesthesia Instructions: Pre &
Postoperative Instructions
It is extremely important that
you DO NOT EAT OR
DRINK anything
for the eight (8) hours preceding your surgery, unless
otherwise instructed. The reason for this is that food
or fluids in the stomach increase the risk of vomiting
while sedated or anesthetized. This can lead to the
stomach contents getting into the lungs, which can
cause serious illness or death.
The day of surgery, please wear comfortable, loose
fitting clothing and flat shoes such as sneakers or
slippers. Remember that you may be somewhat sedated and
will have to walk from your car into your home, so be
comfortable. Please do not wear any make-up to the
office on the day of your surgery.
Following any anesthetic, it
is ABSOLUTELY
NECESSARY that you
have a responsible adult drive you home, and stay with
you for the first 24 hours.
Once you arrive home following your
surgery, you may have water, Coca-Cola or juices. Start
off slowly with small sips, and gradually increase the
amounts as you feel that you can tolerate them. Then
you can add any foods Dr. Gold recommended or that are
on your diet. However, do not feel that you have to eat
solid foods. It is much more important to concentrate
on drinking plenty of water or fruit juices (at least
8, preferably more, glasses a day).
REST is very important after surgery. Do not drive or
do any type of work that will involve coordination or
decision making for at least 24 hours following your
anesthetic.
To help prevent complications following your surgery,
it is very important that you take several deep breaths
followed by strong coughs every hour or two for several
days. This will help keep your lungs clear after your
surgery. If you smoke, we recommend that you quit for
at least one week, preferably two weeks before and
after your surgery. Smoking robs your tissues of
oxygen, and increases your risks when having surgery
and anesthesia.
Return to "Surgical
Instructions"