Preparation for Surgery

All details of date, time, location etc will be discussed at the time of your surgical booking.

Avoid alcohol in the 24 hours before surgery.

Wear comfortable casual clothes to the hospital.

We try to make your surgical experience as easy as possible. If you have any questions please contact the rooms on 7200 2539.

If you fall ill prior to your planned operation, call us at your earliest convenience to discuss your options.

Eating before surgery

At the time of booking your surgery, our staff will discuss with you the recommended fasting time prior to surgery. In general you should not eat or drink anything in the 6 hours prior to your planned surgery time. If you are booked for a morning operation then you should fast from midnight. Times for afternoon lists may be tailored specifically.

You may take any regular medications at their usual time with a sip of water even on the day of surgery (see below)

Medications

Most medications can be taken right up to the day of your operation. However any medications that may increase bleeding should be avoided. Ultimately, not discontinuing such medications may affect the outcome of your surgery.
The following medications should be avoided for 7 days prior to surgery:

  • Aspirin
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories- including Ibuprofen, Nurofen, Diclofenac, Mobic, Celebrex
  • Blood thinners- Warfarin, Clopidogrel, Iscover, Plavix, Predaxa, Apixaban

If you are on any of the blood thinners listed above, please let me know. I may need to discuss with your general practioner or cardiologist.

In addition to this, many herbal preparations can thin the blood. Please avoid any preparations containing the following for 10 days prior to surgery:

  • Fish Oil
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Ginseng
  • Gingko Biloba
  • St John’s Wart
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin E
  • If in doubt, please don’t take these prior to your surgery

Planning for after surgery

Patients must not drive, work or use any dangerous machinery for at least 48 hours following anaesthesia.