FAQs

Every patient has a unique experience, but it is possible to feel nauseous afterwards due to the pain, anesthesia, or medications. We recommend carbonated beverages or saltine crackers to settle your stomach. For extreme nausea, you will have suppositories to help. Start with a bland diet to make sure that your stomach is settled after your procedure.

Patients generally stay 30-60 minutes in the recovery room before they can leave for home. The recovery room is a fully-outfitted hospital room with a fully-trained recovery nurse monitoring your vitals. We will ensure that you are in a healthy place before releasing you to go home. You will not be permitted to leave without a friend or family member (must be 18 or older) present to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

Your recovery time will vary based upon the procedure and your individual experience. Generally, patients feel the worst pain during the first 48 hours. You may need 4-6 weeks before you can return to normal activities. If you are trying to plan your work absence, consult with your doctor for a better picture of your recovery. You may be able to return to remote work more quickly however.

No, you will not be able to drive after your surgery. You will need to have a friend or family member to take you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. Driving should be avoided for 5-7 days after undergoing anesthesia or IV sedation. Also, driving under the influence of prescription pain medication is unsafe.

Wear something comfortable and loose-fitting that will not have to be pulled over your head. You will change into a robe, gown, and foot covers provided by our staff when you arrive for surgery. Leave all jewelry at home. Your keys should be left at home or in the care of your family member/friend accompanying you. You may not wear hairpins, makeup, nail polish, wigs, lotions, creams, or fake eyelashes to your procedure. If you have glasses, contacts, or removable dental devices, please bring a storage container for them.

You should stop all food and drinks, including water, mints, and gum, at midnight the night before your procedure. Avoid all alcohol for 24 hours prior to your surgery. Eating or drinking before your procedure can be dangerous, so your surgery should be canceled if you have not followed the fasting rules. You are permitted to brush your teeth the morning of your procedure, but make sure to spit out all the water and toothpaste afterwards.

At your pre-op visit, you will be provided with specific instructions related to your procedure. Two weeks prior to your procedure, you should stop taking any vitamins and supplements. Pain killers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should be avoided. Smoking impedes your healing process, so we recommend stopping smoking right away. Go ahead and arrange your transportation for the day of your procedure as well as for 5-7 days afterwards. You will also need someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours. Prescriptions will be given at your pre-op visit, so that you can have them filled beforehand. This will ensure that you have what you need after your procedure.