If you're preparing for surgery, you've probably been told not to eat or drink after a certain time. But does that include water?
The answer depends on when you drink it. Many patients are allowed to drink small amounts of plain water up until a few hours before surgery, while others may need to stop earlier. Your surgeon or anesthesia team will give you specific fasting instructions based on your procedure and medical history.
Often, yes—but only until the time specified by your surgical team.
Many anesthesia guidelines allow healthy patients to drink clear liquids, including plain water, until a few hours before surgery. However, every patient is different.
Your fasting instructions may depend on:
For a complete overview of fasting instructions, read When Should I Stop Eating and Drinking Before Surgery?
Unlike food or drinks containing milk, sugar, or fat, plain water moves through the stomach relatively quickly.
Allowing water before surgery may help prevent dehydration and make patients more comfortable while still maintaining anesthesia safety.
Even so, it's important to stop drinking water when your surgical team instructs you to.
Yes.
Plain water is considered a clear liquid.
Other beverages may also be considered clear liquids in certain situations, but you should only drink them if your surgical team specifically says they're allowed.
When in doubt, choose plain water and follow the instructions you've been given.
Many patients are instructed to take certain medications with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery.
Do not stop or continue medications without guidance from your surgeon or the healthcare professional managing your medications.
If you're unsure which medications to take, contact your surgical team before your procedure.
Don't panic.
Call your surgeon's office or surgery center as soon as possible.
Depending on:
...your healthcare team will let you know whether it's safe to proceed as planned.
Being honest about what happened is always the safest approach.
Learn more in What Happens if I Accidentally Eat or Drink Before Surgery?
These beverages are not treated the same as plain water.
Coffee, milk, juice with pulp, protein drinks, and other beverages usually have different fasting rules.
Wondering whether gum is allowed? Read Can I Chew Gum Before Surgery?
Want a simple way to stay on track?
Preparing for surgery involves a lot of small but important steps. Download the free SurgiNav Surgery Prep Checklist to stay organized and feel more confident before your procedure.
Many patients can safely drink small amounts of plain water until a few hours before surgery, but your surgeon's instructions always take priority.
Following your fasting instructions carefully helps reduce anesthesia risks and avoid unnecessary surgery delays.
Before leaving for the hospital, review What to Expect on Surgery Day and Can I Brush My Teeth Before Surgery so you know exactly what to expect that morning.
Preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to remember every detail on your own. Download the free SurgiNav Surgery Prep Checklist to stay organized, avoid common mistakes, and feel more confident before surgery day.
Download the Free Surgery Prep ChecklistThis article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team.
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Educational information only. Always follow your surgeon's instructions.