Preparing for Your Surgery

Clear instructions to help you prepare, recover, and return to activity safely.

Important Notice: The instructions on this page are general guidelines only. Your surgical coordinator will provide you with specific pre-operative instructions tailored to your procedure. Always follow the instructions provided directly by your care team. If you have any questions, please contact our office before your surgery date.

Pre-Operative

Before Surgery

Completing these steps before your procedure helps ensure a safe and successful surgery.

  • Complete any required pre-operative physical or medical clearance as directed by your surgeon
  • Stop blood thinners and anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) as directed by your surgeon — do not stop any medication without guidance
  • Do NOT eat or drink anything (including water) after midnight the night before surgery unless instructed otherwise
  • Shower the night before and the morning of surgery using antibacterial soap if provided by your care team
  • Remove nail polish, jewelry, piercings, and contact lenses before arriving at the surgical facility
  • Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home — you will not be permitted to drive after receiving anesthesia
  • Arrange for assistance at home for at least the first 24–48 hours following surgery
  • Fill any prescribed medications in advance so they are ready and available upon discharge
Day of Surgery

What to Expect on Surgery Day

What to Bring

  • Insurance card and a valid photo ID
  • List of all current medications and dosages
  • Any pre-operative paperwork or forms already completed
  • Loose, comfortable clothing appropriate for your procedure (e.g., shorts for knee surgery)
  • Any durable medical equipment (DME) ordered by your surgeon for post-operative care (e.g., crutches, braces, slings)
  • Please leave valuables and jewelry at home

What to Expect

You will check in at the surgical facility, where nursing staff will complete a pre-operative assessment including vital signs, a medication review, and IV placement.

You will meet with the anesthesiologist prior to surgery to review your anesthesia plan. Your surgeon will also speak with you before the procedure begins.

After your procedure, you will spend time in the recovery room until you are alert and stable. A nurse will review discharge instructions with you and your designated driver before you are released.

Recovery

Recovery & Aftercare

A smooth recovery starts with following your care team’s instructions closely.

First 24–48 Hours

Rest is essential in the immediate post-operative period. Keep the surgical area elevated above heart level and apply ice as directed to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Take all medications as prescribed, including pain medications and any antibiotics. Do not skip doses or wait until pain becomes severe to take pain medication.

Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or make important decisions for at least 24 hours after anesthesia. Anesthesia can impair judgment and reaction time even when you feel alert.

Follow-Up Care

Attend all scheduled post-operative appointments. These visits are critical for monitoring your healing, removing sutures or staples if needed, and adjusting your recovery plan.

Follow all wound care instructions provided at discharge. Keep incisions clean and dry unless directed otherwise. Call our office with any concerns about your incision site.

Activity restrictions — including limitations on lifting, driving, and exercise — will be communicated by your surgeon. Do not exceed these restrictions, even if you feel well.

Emergency

When to Call 911 or Go to the Emergency Room

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or a rapid or irregular heart rate
  • Signs of pulmonary embolism (PE): sudden severe shortness of breath or coughing up blood
  • Signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT): significant calf pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in one leg
  • Fever above 101.5°F accompanied by wound redness, warmth, or drainage
  • Signs of severe infection: increasing swelling, foul-smelling discharge, or red streaking from the wound
Contact Us

When to Call Our Office

Contact our office during business hours for the following concerns:

  • Moderate wound drainage or bleeding that is not controlled with gentle pressure
  • Fever between 100.4°F and 101.4°F
  • Pain that is not adequately controlled with your prescribed medications
  • Swelling or bruising that appears excessive or is worsening after the first 48 hours
  • Questions about your medications, wound care, or activity restrictions

Questions About Your Surgery?

Our care team is here to help. Call your nearest office to speak with a surgical coordinator.