Prepare for Surgery

Prepare for surgery with confidence. This guide walks you through every step before your proedure so you know what to expect and how to get ready.

Not sure what to ask before surgery? Use these important questions to better understand your procedure, recovery, risks, and what to expect before and after surgery.

Learn what typically happens during a pre-op appointment, what questions you may be asked, and how to prepare before surgery.

Learn what questions the anesthesia team may ask before surgery, why they ask them, and how to prepare for your anesthesia evaluation.

Learn which tests you may need before surgery, why they're important, and how to avoid delays by completing your pre-operative testing on time.

Learn how to prepare your body for surgery, including nutrition, hydration, activity, sleep, and other simple steps that may help support recovery.

Learn practical ways to mentally prepare for surgery, reduce anxiety, and feel more confident before your procedure with these simple preparation tips.

Learn how to arrange help after surgery, including transportation, meals, childcare, household tasks, and support during recovery.

Learn how to choose the right caregiver after surgery, what they'll need to help with, and how to prepare together for a smoother recovery.

Can you take an Uber or Lyft home after surgery? Learn why many facilities require a responsible adult, when a rideshare may be an option, and what to ask before surgery day.

Learn how to prepare your home before surgery with practical recovery tips for meals, mobility, safety, sleeping, supplies, and reducing stress after surgery.

Preparing for surgery? Learn what to buy before surgery to make recovery easier, safer, and more comfortable at home. Includes practical recovery essentials and preparation tips.

Wondering what to do the week before surgery? Learn how to prepare, what to avoid, and simple steps that can help surgery day and recovery go more smoothly.

Learn what to do if you develop a cold, fever, flu, COVID-19, or another illness before surgery and when you should contact your surgical team.

Why don’t you know your surgery time yet? Learn why surgery schedules are often finalized close to the procedure, when you may get your arrival time, and what to do if you haven’t heard.

Wondering if you should shower before surgery? Learn when to shower, whether to use antibacterial soap, what products to avoid afterward, and how to prepare safely.

Learn when patients are typically asked to stop eating and drinking before surgery, why fasting matters, and how to follow your surgical team's instructions safely.

What counts as a clear liquid before surgery? Learn which drinks may be allowed, what usually does not count, and why your surgery instructions come first.

Can you drink a protein shake before surgery? Learn why protein shakes usually aren't clear liquids, when to stop, and what to do if you already had one.

Can you drink water before surgery? Learn when plain water is usually allowed, why fasting matters, and what to do if you accidentally drink water before your procedure.

Can you drink coffee before surgery? Learn whether black coffee is allowed, what happens if you accidentally drink it, and how fasting instructions help keep surgery safe.

Can you chew gum before surgery? Learn why most patients should avoid gum after their fasting cutoff, what happens if you accidentally chew gum, and what to do next.

Accidentally ate or drank before surgery? Learn what to do, what information to tell your surgical team, and whether your surgery may need to be delayed.

Can you brush your teeth before surgery? Learn what most surgeons recommend, whether you can use water or mouthwash, and how to safely follow fasting instructions before your procedure.

Can you wear makeup, lotion, nail polish, or jewelry before surgery? Learn what to avoid on surgery day and why these instructions help keep you safe.

Learn what to wear to surgery, including comfortable clothing, footwear recommendations, and practical tips for a smoother surgery day experience.

Wondering what to pack for surgery day? Learn what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to prepare for a smoother surgery experience.

How long does surgery take? Learn what affects surgery length, what counts as a long procedure, and why an operation may take longer than expected.

Learn why medication instructions matter before surgery, which medications may require special attention, and how to safely prepare for your procedure.