Preparing for Surgery

Once you and your doctor decide that surgery will help you, we will ensure you understand what to expect from the surgery and create a treatment plan for the best results afterwards. Preparing mentally and physically for surgery is an important step toward a successful result. Understanding the process and your role in it will help you recover more quickly and have fewer problems.

You should be aware of and discuss any of the following points relevant to you with Prof Patel before surgery:

Routine tests, such as blood tests and x-rays, are usually performed in the pre-admission clinic at your chosen hospital a week before any major surgery.

Discuss any medications you are taking with Prof Patel and your family physician to see which ones you should stop before surgery.

If you are taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications or warfarin or any drugs that increase the risk of bleeding you may need to stop taking them one week before surgery. Please ensure you discuss this with A/Prof Patel.

If you smoke, you should stop or cut down to reduce your surgery risks and improve your recovery.

Report any infections to Prof Patel. Surgery cannot be performed until all infections have cleared up.

If you are having day surgery, remember the following:

Have someone available to take you home, you will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours.

Take your pain medicine as directed. Begin the pain medicine as you start getting uncomfortable, but before you are in severe pain. If you wait to take your pain medication until the pain is severe, you will have more difficulty controlling the pain.

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