Surgery FAQ

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DIAL 911 IF IT’S AN EMERGENCY

Prior to Surgery:

Why do I need medical clearance?

If you have certain conditions, your doctor will request medical clearance to ensure you are healthy enough to undergo surgery. See our reference page for more information.

What is anesthesia?

Anesthesia is the use of medications to prevent feeling any pain and to keep you comfortable during the surgical procedure. A dedicated, highly trained team of doctors and nurses use a variety of modern equipment and medicines to accomplish this and to keep you safe before, during, and after the surgery.

Can I speak to an anesthesiologist?

Yes, the day of the surgery the patient will be speaking directly to the anesthesiologist right before having surgery, he or she will answer all your questions accordingly.

Is the surgery going to be under general or local anesthesia?

Most surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. Please ask your doctor if you have any questions about your specific surgery.

Can I speak to my Doctor before surgery?

Yes, you may always speak to your doctor if you have any questions. You will see the doctor during the pre-operative appointment and on the day of surgery.

Who is performing the surgery?

The doctor you saw during your consultation will be performing the surgery. Occasionally the doctor needs an assistant, who will also be present during the surgery.

Can I get my prescriptions before my surgery?

Occasionally your doctor will give them before, however it is at the doctors’ discretion. Information about the closest pharmacy to the surgical facility will be given to you.

What if I have to cancel or reschedule?

You MUST cancel your surgery AT LEAST TWO (2) WEEKS before the scheduled date. Please note that you will be charged a $100 cancellation fee.

Can I get an earlier date for my surgery?

We try and schedule you at the earliest possible date. However, if you would like an earlier date please let the surgery scheduler know and he or she will give you an earlier slot if it becomes available. Please note that this depends on how long your surgery is expected to take. Longer surgeries will be more difficult to reschedule.

After Surgery:

Can I go to work or school the next day?

No, it is recommended that you recover and rest at home the day after surgery. For certain surgeries, you may be required to stay in the hospital for one or more nights.

How long will it take me to recover?

The recovery time depends on the type of surgery. Please reference your “Surgical Guide” for more specific times. Some general times are listed below:

  • Sinus Surgery, Tonsillectomy, Complex Ear Surgery, Thyroid Surgery: 1-2 WEEKS
  • Ear Tube: 1-3 DAYS
  • Cosmetic Surgery: 2 WEEKS MINIMUM

You doctor will give you more information and/or extend these times if necessary.

Do I need to be in bed after surgery?

In general, no you should walk and be mobile after your surgery. You will receive detailed information about activity instructions and limitations before your surgery. Please reference the “Surgical Guide” for more information.

Can I use UBER or another ride-sharing service after surgery?

Yes, you may IF you have a family member or friend with you. Please not that you may NOT use a bus as a means to go home.

Can I drive home after surgery?

No, you may NOT drive home after surgery. You MUST have a ride from a family member or a friend.

What can I eat after surgery?

You will receive detailed diet instructions before surgery. Please reference the “Surgical Guide” for more information. General guideline are listed below:

  • Eat lightly after surgery as you may be nauseous due to the anesthesia.
  • Do NOT drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after your surgery.
  • Use ONLY the medications provided to you unless directed by your doctor.
  • For oral and tonsil surgery, drink only liquids and broth until you have healed

What do I need to bring with me to the pre-operative appointment?

Please bring your identification, insurance card, medical clearance (if necessary) and an accurate and complete list of medications you are currently taking.

What do I need to bring with me on the day of surgery

Please refer to the “Surgery Day Checklist” for a complete list of items to bring with you.

What do I need to do to prepare for surgery?

Please refer to the “Surgery Day Checklist” for a complete list of items to bring with you.

Do I need to bring the child with me to the pre-operative appointment?

No, the child does not need to be present. However if you have any questions concerning the surgery that requires examination of the patient, the child should be present.

When should I arrive for surgery?

Please arrive TWO (2) HOURS BEFORE your scheduled surgery time. If there are any changes to your scheduled time, the hospital or surgical center will contact you.

Can someone else take my child to his or her surgery?

No, a parent or legal guardian MUST be present. A legal guardian MUST have appropriate documentation (power of attorney or equivalent proof).

How long is my surgery?

The duration is dependent on how complex the surgery is. Please reference your “Surgical Guide” for more information.

Can I stay with my baby/child?

Yes, one parent or legal guardian may be at the bedside before and after surgery.

CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY IF YOU ARE HAVING AN EMERGENCY.
If you are having any other concerns, questions, or complications, please reach us at (866) 989-6494.

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