What to Expect

Any surgery or procedure can provoke a variety of fears. We want to provide you as much information as possible to help you feel confident and comfortable during your experience.

Before your surgery
  • You will be greeted by a nurse who will check your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, blood pressure and respirations and then help you dress for your procedure.
  • If you are to have anesthesia, the anesthetist will visit with you and ask questions pertaining to previous surgical experiences and to your general health. The anesthetist will verify that you have not eaten or had anything to drink and discuss the type of anesthesia you will receive.
  • The nurse will administer any pre-anesthetic drug ordered by your physician.
  • If anesthesia is planned, an IV will be started in your arm.
  • Hair may be removed from your surgical areas and the site will be washed with antiseptic soap.
  • Your surgeon will initial the site for surgery and your surgical team will verify with you the site of where the surgery is to take place.
  • If you are still awake when you are moved to the operating room, you may notice that the room is cold and bright. Extra blankets can be provided to keep you comfortable.
After your surgery
  • You will be taken to the recovery room where you will be closely monitored.
  • Your blood pressure, pulse and breathing will be checked frequently by your surgical team.
  • While you are being monitored closely, your physician will meet with your family to inform them of your progress.
  • After you are awake, you will be offered a drink and a light snack. Your physician will check on you and where you are at in your recovery process. You may be discharged once all criteria is met, usually 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.
  • The recovery room nurse will give you written instructions to follow at home.
  • When you are ready for visitors, family may join you in the recovery room as allowed by the recovery room nurse.

It is normal to feel slightly dizzy and/or drowsy after surgery. You should not attempt to do any mechanical tasks, drive a car or make important decisions for 24 hours. Do not drink any alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours following your surgery. You need to have a reasonable person stay with you for 24 hours after general anesthesia or sedation.