Pre-op instructions
How to prepare safely in the days and hours before your surgery.
Educational information only. Always follow the specific instructions given by your own surgical and anesthesia team — they may differ from this general guide.
⏱ Fasting rules
An empty stomach lowers the risk of complications during anesthesia. Typical guidance:
| Before surgery | Guidance |
|---|
| Solid food | Stop eating at least 6 hours before |
| Light meal / milk | At least 6 hours before |
| Clear fluids (water, clear juice, black coffee/tea) | Usually allowed up to 2 hours before |
| Chewing gum / sweets | Avoid on the day of surgery |
| Alcohol | Avoid for 24 hours before |
💊 Medication guidance
Bring a full list of all your medications, doses, and supplements.
Blood thinners (e.g. warfarin, apixaban, clopidogrel, aspirin) — ask your team well in advance; these often need adjusting.
Diabetes medication and insulin — you\u2019ll get specific instructions for the morning of surgery.
Blood pressure medication — usually continued, often with a small sip of water.
Supplements that increase bleeding (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo) — usually stopped beforehand.
🧥 What to bring
Photo ID and any hospital paperwork or appointment letters.
A complete list of medications and allergies.
Glasses, hearing aids, inhalers, or CPAP machine if you use one.
Comfortable, loose clothing and flat shoes.
Leave jewelry, valuables, and contact lenses at home.
Arrange a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you.
💬 What to tell your anesthesiologist
Previous reactions or problems with anesthesia (yours or in your family).
Allergies — especially to medications, latex, or chlorhexidine.
Loose or capped teeth, or difficulty opening your mouth.
Snoring or sleep apnea, heart or lung conditions, reflux.
All medications, supplements, smoking, alcohol, or recreational drug use.
If you are or might be pregnant.
📅 Preparation timeline
1–2 weeks
Attend pre-assessment. Review medications and blood thinners. Stop smoking if you can.
Day before
Confirm arrival time. Prepare what to bring. Avoid alcohol. Get a good night\u2019s sleep.
Morning of
Follow fasting rules. Take only the medications you were told to. Shower, remove makeup/nail polish.
At hospital
Check in, meet your team, confirm consent, and ask any final questions.
Next step: questions to ask & education