Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for surgery is a pretty straightforward affair. Your surgeon will give you all the necessary information regarding your operation, including what you should do beforehand.

This may involve taking certain medication or adjusting your current medication doses, or following a certain diet. The information should also explain when to stop eating and drinking in the hours leading up to your operation.

While the days and hours leading up to surgery can be a nervous time, you need to ensure you correctly follow the instructions provided by your surgeon to boost your chances of a successful operation and a quick recovery.

Preparing physically

As your surgery date approaches, it is generally suggested that you:

  • Do not smoke
  • Avoid drinking alcohol
  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
  • Take part in regular exercise if possible
  • Arrange any assistance you may need on the day or post-surgery

What should I take to hospital?

If you are undergoing inpatient surgery (i.e. your surgery requires you to stay in hospital overnight) then you should consider bringing the following items:

  • Address book of important contacts (including your doctor)
  • Any medication you need, with a clear list of each required dosage
  • Pyjamas or a nightdress, slippers and a dressing gown
  • Clean underwear
  • Day clothes
  • Small towel
  • Toiletries
  • Sanitary products
  • Shaving products
  • Some money
  • Reading material, notepad and pen
  • Healthy snacks

If you are undergoing outpatient surgery (i.e. you are not staying in hospital overnight), then you are unlikely to need some of those items. Please ensure you have transport to and from the hospital arranged beforehand though.

Cancelling or rearranging your appointment

If you feel too ill to undergo surgery, or are unable to attend the appointment for any other reason, you need to inform the hospital as soon as possible. They will then reschedule the operation for another day.




In the days leading up to the appointment, if you develop a cold, fever or cough, you should inform your surgeon. They will then make a decision on whether the appointment can still go ahead, or whether it needs to be rearranged.

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