Procedure Preparations

General pre-surgical instructions

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This includes water, coffee, cola, tea, gum, and hard candy. You may brush your teeth, but do not swallow any water.
  • Please refer to your individualized instructions you were given during your Pre-Surgical Testing visit for any medications you are to take the morning of surgery. These may be taken with a sip of water.
  • Do not smoke, “dip,” or chew tobacco products for at least 12 hours before your surgery.
  • Do not wear makeup of any type the day of surgery. Do not use hairspray on the day of surgery.
  • Remove all jewelry (including body piercings) prior to arrival at Northeast Georgia Medical Center on the day of surgery.
  • Take a bath or shower the morning of surgery, unless you have been instructed otherwise. You may use an antibacterial soap if you have one available. This reduces the bacteria on your skin.
  • The anesthesia you will be given could make you drowsy and affect your judgment. Do not make any legal or important decisions, drive a vehicle, or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after surgery. You must have an adult with you who can drive you home after the procedure. You will need an adult to stay with you for 24 hours after your procedure.
  • If you think you may be getting sick, please call your surgeon. This includes symptoms such as vomiting, fever, rash, nausea or a cold. Some illnesses may affect how you react with anesthesia.
  • Please do not bring valuables with you to the hospital.
  • Do not wear contact lenses the morning of surgery. If you must wear lenses, bring a case and solution with you.
  • Take only medicines as instructed by the anesthesiologist. You may take them with a SIP of water – not coffee, milk or juice.
  • If you are to be admitted to the hospital instead of going home after your surgery, your family will receive information on room accommodations.