What to Expect the Day of Your Surgery

Knowing what to expect on the day of your surgery can help ease anxiety and ensure that everything goes smoothly. For patients undergoing general or minimally invasive procedures, preparation and understanding of the process are key to a safe and successful outcome. Here’s a detailed overview of what typically happens before, during, and after surgery to help you feel informed and confident.

Preparing Before You Arrive

On the day of your surgery, preparation begins long before you step into the operating room. Most patients will receive specific pre-operative instructions from their surgical team in advance. These may include:

• Fasting: You’ll be asked not to eat or drink for a certain number of hours before surgery to prevent complications during anesthesia.
• Medication Adjustments: Some medications may need to be stopped or adjusted prior to surgery, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications.
• Personal Arrangements: Plan to have someone accompany you to and from the hospital or surgical center. You’ll likely be unable to drive afterward.
• Clothing and Belongings: Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave valuables, jewelry, and makeup at home.

Following these guidelines helps ensure a smoother process once you arrive at the surgical facility.

Check-In and Pre-Operative Preparation

When you arrive, you’ll check in at the surgical reception area. The nursing staff will review your medical history, confirm your procedure, and take vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and oxygen levels.

• You’ll change into a hospital gown and remove any personal items.
• An intravenous (IV) line will be placed to administer fluids, medications, and anesthesia.
• You’ll meet with your anesthesiologist, who will explain the anesthesia plan and answer any questions.
• The surgeon may also visit to review final details and mark the surgical site if needed.

This preparation phase is designed to ensure safety and accuracy before entering the operating room.

During the Surgery

Once you’re taken to the operating room, you’ll be connected to monitors that track your heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure throughout the procedure. Depending on the type of surgery, you’ll receive general anesthesia (to make you fully asleep) or regional anesthesia (to numb a specific part of your body).

Your surgical team — which includes the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nurses — will work together to ensure the highest level of care and precision. For minimally invasive or robotic-assisted procedures, small incisions and advanced technology allow for greater accuracy, less pain, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

After the Surgery: Recovery and Monitoring

After the procedure, you’ll be moved to the recovery room, also known as the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Here, nurses will monitor your vital signs and ensure you wake comfortably from anesthesia.

• Monitoring: Your blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen will be checked regularly.
• Pain Management: You may receive pain medication through your IV or orally to ensure comfort.
• Observation Time: Most patients remain in recovery for one to two hours before being discharged or moved to a hospital room if an overnight stay is needed.

Your surgeon or a member of the surgical team will discuss the results of your procedure and provide initial recovery instructions.

Post-Surgery Instructions

Before you leave the facility, you’ll receive detailed instructions regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. Common guidelines include:

• Keep your incisions clean and dry.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few days or weeks.
• Take prescribed medications as directed.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you experience fever, excessive pain, swelling, or bleeding.

Most patients can resume light activities within a few days, especially after minimally invasive procedures. Full recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery and individual healing factors.

Ensuring a Smooth Surgical Experience

The day of surgery can feel overwhelming, but preparation and communication make a major difference. Arriving early, following pre-op instructions, and asking questions about your recovery plan all help create a positive and safe experience. Modern surgical techniques and attentive post-operative care are designed to minimize discomfort and promote faster healing.

If you’re scheduled for surgery or planning one soon, our experienced surgical team is here to guide you through every step — from preparation to recovery. Reach out today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about what to expect for your procedure.

LENOX HILL SURGEONS
155 East 76th Street
Suite 1C
New York, NY 10021
646-933-3224
lenoxhillsurgeons@gmail.com