Two Weeks Prior to Surgery
NO VITAMIN E (Except in a daily multivitamin)
Please do not take any of the following HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS: Ginkgo Biloba, Ginger, Ginseng, Garlic, St, John's Wart, Willow Bark or Fish Oil. (This does not apply to seasoning in foods.) Also please stop any homeopathic or dietary supplements.
No alcohol, no smoking or nicotine products, if possible. This will help to reduce the amount of post-operative swelling and will increase your body's ability to heal after surgery.
Tylenol (acetaminophen) is allowed pre-op for pain and/or fever. DO NOT take any aspirin or ibuprofen products as this can prolong your bleeding time.
One Week Prior to Surgery
If you are taking Coumadin, Plavix, or other blood thinners, please let the nurse know at the time of your pre-operative interview. Please also let the nurse known if you suspect you could be pregnant.
Please contact our office at 970-644-3800 if you have any questions prior to surgery.
24 - 48 Hours Prior to Surgery
If you or your child receive a prescription for numbing lollipops (tetracaine) these are ONLY available at Western Colorado Compounding Pharmacy in Grand Junction. This medication is typically NOT covered by most insurances. Please contact your insurance or the pharmacy to verify coverage and or pricing for these prescriptions. Please be advised that all prescriptions will be given day of surgery except for the tetracaine lollipops which will be electronically sent over to Western Colorado Compounding Pharmacy the night before your surgery. If you are taking Coumadin, Plavix, or other blood thinners, please let the nurse know at the time of your first pre-operative interview. Please also let the nurse known if you suspect you could be pregnant.
You will receive a confirmation call from our office and from the hospital or surgery center as well with a time for surgery. Please be aware that until this call the exact time of your surgery may change and this call will provide the final time. The staff calling may have questions they would like to confirm with you at this time as well.
Night Prior to Surgery
DO NOT eat or drink anything after midnight, unless directed to by a member of our staff. This will ensure that your stomach is empty for safety during the procedure and will reduce nausea and/or vomiting that sometimes occur with surgery.
Day of Surgery
Take only your heart, blood pressure and seizure medications the morning of surgery. Use the smallest sip of water needed to take your medications. Contact your primary care physician regarding insulin dosage for the morning of your surgery.
Do not apply lotions, perfumes, powders, body oil, or make-up the day of surgery.
Please do not wear contact lenses on the day of surgery. Leave all valuables at home or with family members. You will be required to remove ALL jewelry prior to surgery. Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
You must arrange for someone responsible (over the age of 18) to pick you up from the hospital and remain with you for 24-48 hours after your surgery.
Do not sign any papers or make any important decisions for 24 hours after surgery or while still taking narcotic medication, as medications may alter your judgment.