Patient Instructions > Anesthesia Instructions
If you are having an anesthetic, please refrain from eating or drinking anything, including gum or water, for 8 hours prior to your appointment time. Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before or after your surgery. Patients with special needs (eg diabetics, children) will be given specific instructions at the consultation appointment.
Please wear a loose-fitting, short-sleeved shirt to your appointment and remove any nail polish. Also remove any facial or mouth/tongue piercings.
Ensure that you have a ride to and from your appointment – you will not be able to drive or take a bus/taxi. A responsible adult must be with you for the rest of the day following the surgical procedure.
Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours (or longer if drowsiness or dizziness persists) after receiving an anesthetic.
If your arm is painful at the site of the injection of the anesthetic, the use of warm compresses to the site of soreness (20-30 min each hour) and over-the-counter painkillers will help. If the pain persists or worsens, notify your surgeon at once.
If a breathing tube was used during your surgery, you may have a sore throat, or generalized body, neck, or chest muscle stiffness. Use frequent warm salt water rinsing, and soak in a bathtub of warm water. If pain persists, notify your surgeon.
Please contact the office should you have any questions.
