One of the most common questions before surgery is:
"When do I need to stop eating and drinking?"
Your surgeon or anesthesia team will provide specific instructions based on your procedure and medical history, but most patients are asked to stop eating and drinking for a period of time before surgery.
Following these instructions is important for your safety during anesthesia.
If you are unsure about your fasting instructions, contact your surgical team before surgery day.
Many patients find it helpful to understand more on how to prepare for surgery to feel confident ahead of surgery.
When anesthesia is used, the body's normal protective reflexes may be reduced.
If food or liquid remains in the stomach, there is a risk that stomach contents could move into the lungs during anesthesia.
Fasting instructions are designed to help reduce this risk and improve patient safety.
No.
Fasting instructions may vary depending on:
Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team rather than relying on general advice online.
Many patients receive specific instructions regarding water and clear liquids.
However, recommendations vary.
Do not assume that water is allowed without confirming your instructions.
Your surgical team will tell you exactly when to stop drinking before surgery.
If you accidentally eat or drink after your instructed cutoff time, contact your surgeon or surgical facility as soon as possible.
In some cases, surgery may need to be delayed for safety reasons.
Do not hide this information from your healthcare team.
Their goal is to keep you safe.
Some medications should still be taken before surgery.
Others may need to be stopped.
Your surgeon, anesthesiologist, or healthcare team will provide instructions regarding your medications.
If you are uncertain, ask before surgery day.
Many patients find it helpful to:
Planning ahead can help reduce stress on surgery day.
Avoid:
When questions arise, contact your surgical team.
The most important rule is simple:
Follow the instructions provided by your surgeon and anesthesia team.
Those instructions are tailored to your procedure and health history and should always take priority over general information.
Fasting helps reduce the risk of stomach contents entering the lungs during anesthesia.
Some patients can drink water up to a certain time before surgery, but recommendations vary. Always follow your specific instructions.
Contact your surgeon or surgical facility immediately. Surgery may need to be delayed depending on the circumstances.
Yes. Instructions may differ based on the procedure, anesthesia, and individual medical factors.
Contact your surgeon, anesthesia team, or surgical facility before surgery day.
The more you know ahead of time, the more confident you will feel. Get your personalized surgery checklist, recovery timeline, and step-by-step guidance to help you feel confident before and after surgery.
Get Your Surgery PlanThis 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.