General Surgical Instructions

Please feel free to bring music tapes or CDs to listen to during your appointment.

Prescriptions and Medic ations:

• Have any prescriptions filled prior to your surgery date.
• A sedative is available upon request.
• The sedative must be taken one hour prior to appointment.
• If a sedative is taken, you must have a driver.
• If Motrin (Ibuprofen) and/or an antibiotic are prescribed, begin taking as directed on your prescription.
• We advise you to take the pain medication before your numbness wears off.
• Avoid alcohol and aspirin 3 to 5 days prior to surgery, as they are blood thinners and may cause excessive bleeding and delay healing.
• Please eat a good meal before your appointment, as you will be numb when you leave and may not feel like eating for a while.

Have an Ice Pack at Home:

• The use of ice will help reduce swelling and pain after surgery.
• Ice is useful for the first 6-8 hours after surgery.
• Moist heat may be applied the day following surgery, for additional comfort.

Diet Suggestions:

• Have soft foods available: pasta, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu and potatoes are good choices.
• Make certain to eat prior to surgery, you may not feel much like eating after surgery, and it will be helpful when taking your medications.
• Avoid caffeine before surgery.

Recuperation:

• Allow 24 to 48 hours of rest after your surgery.
• Minimize your activity during this time.
• Avoid activities that will elevate your heart rate and blood pressure.
• Healing will occur much faster by resting.