Before Surgery


If you have any questions about this step in your Surgery Center experience or anything else, please call (716) 568-6100.

Doctor talking to patientPreparation

Your preparation for surgery is extremely important to reduce the risk of complications during surgery, as well as improve your comfort level and recovery time after surgery. Your surgeon will arrange for any laboratory tests or x-rays prior to the date of surgery. A nurse will contact you the afternoon prior to your surgery to review pre-operative (before surgery) instructions and confirm your arrival time to the surgery center.

Have a question? Call (716) 568-6100.

Read the instructions below carefully; failure to follow these instructions may result in your surgery being canceled to ensure your safety.

Planning Ahead

You will not be permitted to drive yourself home after surgery if you receive any type of sedation. Someone must accompany you to the Surgery Center, stay during your surgery and take you home after you are discharged. Your surgery will be cancelled if you do not have someone with you.

It is also recommended that someone remain with you at your home overnight because the effects of anesthesia may last up to 24 hours.

No one under the age of 18 will be admitted without an accompanying parent or legal guardian, and legal guardians must provide proof of guardianship.

Bring a copy of your medical directive/healthcare proxy

A medical directive is a statement that outlines the medical treatment you prefer - and the name of the person you choose to make health care decisions for you if you can no longer speak for yourself. Should you have a medical directive or health care proxy, please provide us with a copy. The Surgery Center staff can provide information regarding appointing a health care proxy. Please note that a "Do Not Resusitate" (DNR) order will not be in place during the course of care at our facility.

Food and drink

Eat a normal evening meal the day before your surgery, but DO NOT eat or drink anything after midnight -- including gum or mints.

Smoking

DO NOT smoke the evening prior to or the morning of your surgery. Smoking causes bronchial irritation and may increase the likelihood of breathing problems during and after anesthesia.

Alcohol

DO NOT drink alcohol for at least two days prior to surgery.

Medication

  • Medications such as insulin and inhalers should be brought with you.
  • Talk to your surgeon about whether you should avoid the use of aspirin or Motrin/ibuprofen products prior to surgery.
  • If you take aspirin or Coumadin daily, you must talk to your physician before discontinuing the medication.
  • Notify your physician if you are taking diet suppressant medication and follow the directions you are given.

Pregnancy

Notify your surgeon immediately if you suspect you might be pregnant. Anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing fetus.

Changes in your health

Report any changes in your health to your surgeon, even minor changes such as a persistent cough, cold or fever.