What Happens Before Surgery?
Before your procedure, your healthcare team will assess your general health and discuss the planned surgery with you. Depending on the type of operation, you may need blood tests, imaging, or other medical examinations.
Your doctor may discuss:
- Why the surgery is recommended
- How the procedure will be performed
- Possible benefits and risks
- The type of anaesthesia that may be used
- Expected recovery time
- What you should do before and after surgery
This is also the right time to ask questions if there is anything about the procedure that you do not understand.
Tell Your Healthcare Team About Your Medications
Make sure your doctor knows about all medications and supplements you are taking. This includes prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Some medicines may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before certain procedures. However, do not stop taking any medication unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
You should also tell your healthcare team about any allergies or previous reactions to medicines or anaesthesia.
Follow Your Pre-Surgery Instructions
Your healthcare team may give you specific instructions to follow before surgery. These instructions can vary depending on the type of procedure and your individual health.
You may be asked to:
- Avoid eating or drinking for a specific period before surgery
- Take or stop certain medications as instructed
- Complete required laboratory or imaging tests
- Bathe or prepare the surgical area according to instructions
- Avoid smoking or alcohol
- Arrange transportation and support after the procedure
Following these instructions carefully can help reduce avoidable complications and prepare your body for surgery.
Plan for Your Recovery
Preparing for surgery also means preparing for what happens afterward.
Depending on your procedure, you may need someone to take you home and assist you during the first few days of recovery. It can also help to prepare your home in advance by arranging comfortable clothing, necessary supplies, prescribed medications, and easy-to-prepare meals.
Ask your healthcare provider when you can safely return to work, exercise, driving, and other normal activities.
Good preparation is an important part of safe surgical care. Follow your healthcare team’s instructions, provide accurate information about your health and medications, complete recommended tests, and make arrangements for your recovery. If you are unsure about any instruction, ask your healthcare provider before your procedure rather than making assumptions.
ARISET Medical Centre
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I eat or drink before surgery?
Some procedures require you to avoid food and drinks for a specific period before surgery. Your healthcare team will tell you exactly what you should do based on your procedure and anaesthesia plan.
2. Should I stop taking my regular medication before surgery?
Not unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Some medications may need to be adjusted before surgery, while others should be continued.
3. What should I tell my doctor before surgery?
Tell your healthcare team about your medical conditions, allergies, medications, supplements, previous reactions to anaesthesia, and any other health concerns you have.
4. Should someone accompany me after surgery?
For many procedures, especially those involving anaesthesia, you may need someone to take you home and provide support during your initial recovery. Your healthcare team will advise you based on your procedure.
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Surgical Care at ARISET Medical Centre
Every surgical procedure requires careful planning and professional medical care. At ARISET Medical Centre, our healthcare team is committed to helping patients understand their treatment, prepare appropriately, and receive attentive care throughout their surgical journey.
If you have been advised to undergo surgery or would like to discuss a surgical concern, speak with our medical team to understand your options and the next steps.
Contact ARISET Medical Centre today to schedule a consultation.
