Surgery Preparation

Before Your Surgery

Prior to your surgery, a staff member will call to confirm your surgery time and ask questions regarding your medical conditions, allergies, and medications.
A hospital nurse will tell you what time you are to stop eating and drinking prior to your surgery. If you do not follow their instructions, your surgery or procedure may be canceled.
If you take medication for any condition, even if it is unrelated to your surgery or procedure, ask your physician or a hospital nurse whether to take it the day of surgery.
Notify your physician if there is any change in your health, such as a cold, fever, or sore throat, the week before your surgery.
For women, if there is any possibility you are pregnant, please notify your physician and a hospital nurse.

Day of Your Surgery

Bathe and dry your hair the morning of your surgery. Do not use any styling products or wear make up, perfume, or nail polish.
Do not wear or bring any valuables, including watches, rings, or other jewelry.
Bring a storage container for contact lenses, dentures, and any other prosthesis. You will need to remove any and all of these items prior to surgery.
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Upon arrival, you will change into a gown and slippers provided by the hospital.
Arrive promptly at the scheduled time to allow adequate time for admission procedures.

Inpatient Recovery
After your surgery, you will be moved to the recovery area where you will be closely monitored until you are ready to transfer to an overnight room. Patients requiring an overnight stay at Methodist Hospital for Surgery will be taken to one of our private patient rooms to recover here your family is welcome to join you.

Patient Room Amenities:

Large, private rooms
Flat screen televisions
Hotel-like patient rooms
Free Wi-Fi access
Free room service meals

Outpatient Recovery
After your outpatient surgery or procedure, you will be moved to the recovery area where you will be closely monitored until you are ready to go home. It is normal to feel discomfort in the area of your surgical site. You may also experience some drowsiness or dizziness, depending on the type of anesthesia you received.

When you are fully awake, your family will be able to join you in the recovery area until you are discharged. Although the times vary, most patients are discharged one to three hours after surgery. For your safety, please arrange for an adult to drive you home after surgery. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home.