Pre-Operative Surgery Instructions

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It is very important that you follow these instructions so your surgery or procedure may proceed as planned. Please call our office if you have any questions before your surgery. Time has been set aside especially for you.  If you are unable to make your scheduled appointment, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance and we will be happy to reschedule.

Pre-Operative Instructions for All Patients:

  1. Take your daily medications with a small sip of water the morning of surgery.
  2. If prescribed an antibiotic, please take it with a small sip of water 1-hour before surgery.
  3. If prescribed an Antimicrobial Rinse (Chlorhexidine), please use it twice a day for 2-days prior to surgery and continue twice a day for 5-days after surgery.
  4. Avoid aspirin and aspirin products (Anacin, Bufferin, or Alka-Seltzer), for at least 3-days prior to surgery unless directed by your physician.  Tylenol is OK to use instead.
  5. If you are going to have local anesthesia only, you may eat prior to your appointment and do not need somebody to accompany you to the office unless you are under 18.
  6. If you are going to have IV anesthesia, a responsible adult must accompany you to your appointment, remain in the waiting area, and bring you home. 
  7. After IV anesthesia, you cannot drive or operate machinery for 24 hours.  It is also recommended that a responsible adult stay with you during your first day of recovery.
  8. If you have elected IV anesthesia, do not have anything to eat or drink, including water, after midnight the night before your surgery.
  9. If you take medications regularly, you may take them with small sips of water at your regular time.  Also, any additional medications prescribed to you by our office, should be taken with small sips of water as directed.
  10. Wear comfortable clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can easily be rolled above your elbows.
  11. Do not wear contact lenses, jewelry or make up.  Please secure long hair behind your head.
  12. Do not smoke tobacco products the day of your surgery, and preferably refrain from smoking for one week after your surgery.
  13. Clean your mouth and teeth to help avoid infection.
  14. If you are experiencing head or chest cold symptoms, please inform our office as an appointment change may be necessary for your well being.
  15. If you wear dentures, please do not use denture adhesive.

Please follow these additional important Pre-Operative Instructions by Anesthesia Type: