FAQs

1.  What type of anesthesia will I have?

2.  How long is my surgery?

3.  How long do I stay at the Surgery Center before discharge home?

4.  How do I get pain medicine for use at home?

5.  Can I drive myself home after surgery?

6.  Can I eat, drink, or smoke before surgery?

What type of anesthesia will I have?
There are many types of anesthesia: local, conscious sedation, deep sedation, monitored anesthesia care, spinal, and general anesthesia. The first three listed are given by your surgeon or doctor. The last three listed require the expertise of an anesthesiologist. The actual type of anesthesia will be discussed with you by your doctor or anesthesiologist. Back to top

How long is my surgery?
Depending on the surgery performed: 30 minutes to three hours. Back to top

How long do I stay at the Surgery Center before discharge home?
Depending on the type of surgery and anesthesia given: 30 minutes to 3 hours. Back to top

How do I get pain medicine for use at home?
Your doctor will write a prescription and a nurse will call in the prescription to your pharmacy of choice. You can pick it up on the way home. Some doctors give their patients a prescription for pain pills before the day of surgery. Back to top

Can I drive myself home after surgery?
No. You must have someone drive you home. The only exception is when you receive local anesthesia only, without any sedatives. Back to top

Can I eat, drink, or smoke before surgery?
No. Most surgeries require that you do not eat or drink starting from 12:00 Midnight. It is best that you do not smoke the day of surgery. Please take your blood pressure or heart medicine with a sip of water the day of surgery. Back to top