Knowing what to expect before and after your surgery can make the process much less overwhelming.

Before Your Surgery…

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your surgery. This includes water, juice, tea/coffee, chewing gum and tobacco products. It also includes all medications, unless instructed differently by your surgeon.
• Ask your surgeon to let you know when you should stop taking aspirin or NSAIDS (i.e., Motrin, ibuprofen, or Aleve), and talk with him/her about any herbal supplements you are taking.
• Notify your surgeon if you are taking any blood thinning medications.
• Do not use tobacco products or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before surgery.
• We will provide you with special antimicrobial soap. Shower from the neck down the night before and the morning of your surgery. Be careful to keep the soap away from your eyes.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will be easy to put on after your operation.
• Please do not wear jewelry, body piercing, or contact lenses.
• Light make up is allowed, except mascara. You may wear nail polish and acrylic nails.

After Your Surgery…

• You will be in the Recovery Room for about an hour after your surgery.
• You will receive written instructions, as well as any prescriptions that you will need, before you go home.
• A responsible person must drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours after discharge.
• Do not drink any alcoholic beverages or sign any legal documents for 24 hours after surgery.
• A nurse from the hospital will attempt to contact you within the first few days following surgery to check on your recuperation and answer any questions you may have.

For more information on what to expect, download our brochure, talk to your physician or call 406-222-3541 and ask to speak with a surgical nurse.

Preparing for Your Hospital Stay