Before Your Procedure

Shortly before your scheduled procedure, a representative from our facility will call to confirm details of your appointment. If we can't reach you, make sure to call us no later than the day before surgery. We'll need to know about current and past medical conditions, current medications and allergies. This is also the perfect opportunity to discuss any questions or special needs you may have.

• Your physician will tell you when to stop eating and drinking before your procedure.
• If you routinely take any medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, ask your physician if it's okay to take the day of your procedure.
• For female patients, let your doctor know if there's any chance you could be pregnant.
• As a precaution, you should leave valuables like watches, jewelry and wallets at home.
• Tell your physician if there's any change in your health (cold, fever, sore throat, etc.).
• Stay safe! Plan to have an adult drive you home afterwards, as you will not be permitted to drive.

>> Download the pre-operation and post-operation instructions (PDF).

Day of Your Procedure

• Make sure to arrive on time so we can help you with all necessary admission procedures.
• You'll need your insurance and a photo ID (e.g. driver's license) for admissions. If you need to make special financial arrangements, simply give us a call prior to admission.
• Be sure to bring a list of your current medications and any paperwork your doctor may have given you, such as test results or medical history.
• Dress comfortable! We suggest loose-fitting pants and top.
• When you arrive, we'll provide a gown and slippers for you to change into, and will need you to remove all jewelry, contact lenses, dentures and any prosthesis.

In the Recovery Area

Immediately following your procedure, we'll move you to a recovery area where we can monitor you until you're discharged, usually within 1-3 hours after surgery. Once you're fully awake, your family can join you in the recovery area, too. At this time, it's normal to feel some discomfort at the surgery site, as well as some drowsiness or dizziness, depending on what anesthesia you received.

Recovering at Home

Before you're discharged, your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for yourself at home. For the first 24 hours following your procedure, you should avoid strenuous activity, alcoholic beverages, driving and having to make critical decisions. Within a day or two after your procedure, we'll follow up to ask how recovery is going; if you're having any difficulty at all, let us know or contact your physician.

Finally, we'll ask you to complete a simple questionnaire about the care you received at Viewmont Surgery Center, as we strive to continuously provide the highest level of care.