NOTHING BY MOUTH

For your safety, it is very important for you to have an empty stomach before surgery. You should not have anything to eat or drink after midnight prior to the morning of your surgery, unless we or your surgeon tell you otherwise.

TEETH AND DENTURES

Please make certain that we are aware of your dental appliances or special dental work (such as caps) that you have. It is usually unnecessary to remove appliances, but we may occasionally ask that the appliances be removed to safely facilitate your general anesthesia. Should removal of your appliances be necessary, they can be replaced shortly after your arrival in the recovery room. Regional anesthesia usually does not require their removal.

MEDICATIONS

We recommend that all blood pressure, heart, asthmatic, intestinal (EXCEPT solid or chalky antacids like Tums, Maalox, Mylanta, or Pepto-Bismal), and antibiotic medications be taken as usual prior to surgery. Most other medications are acceptable as well. You should take your medications with a sip of water if you have been instructed not to consume food or other liquids, depending on the time frame before surgery.

NAIL POLISH

Nail polish and false nails are acceptable.

JEWELRY

All jewelry, including rings, should be removed and left at home.

MAKEUP AND HAIR PIECES

They may be worn, but can become dislodged, disrupted or smeared during the procedure.

GLASSES AND CONTACT LENSES

You should remove your contacts and glasses for general anesthesia, but may be allowed to wear your glasses or contacts during a regional anesthetic if circumstances permit.