Several Days Before Surgery

• Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
• Check with your surgeon's office regarding how long you should avoid aspirin prior to your surgery. If you require pain medication, check with your surgeon or take a non-aspirin pain reliever, such as Tylenol®.
• Monitor how you're feeling. Any unexpected illness such as fever, cough, sore throat, or sniffles could postpone your surgery.
• Please let your surgeon know if you're not feeling well or experience new or different symptoms.

The Day Before Surgery

• Refrain from alcohol in the 24 hours prior to your surgery. Alcohol can interfere with most types of anesthesia and lead to complications.
• Schedule a driver. You'll need a responsible person to drive you home from the hospital when you are ready for discharge. For your safety, we cannot allow you to drive or take a taxi home.
• Arrange for a "recovery buddy." It is strongly recommended that a dependable person stay at home with you during the first 24 hours of recovery, assisting you as needed.

The Night Before Surgery

Your stomach must be empty prior to surgery. If not, your procedure may be postponed. It is very important that you follow these diet guidelines:

• Click here for adults and children twelve and older
• Click here for children less than twelve years old