Before IV/General Anesthesia
For all surgeries, please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Tops/shirts should have sleeves that are easily drawn up above the elbow. Females should remove nail polish before surgery, wear low-heeled shoes, and apply as little makeup as possible. Medications are given through a vein in your arm or hand, which will cause total relaxation and/or loss of consciousness. There will be very little, if any, recall of the events surrounding surgery.
IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING YOUR ANESTHESIA
- Do not eat or drink anything for eight (8) hours prior to surgery. However , it is important that you take any regular medications (high blood pressure, antibiotics, etc.) as directed by Dr. Lawhorn or any pre-medication prescription that we have provided, using only a small sip of water.
- No Smoking for at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible prior to the day of surgery.
- For morning appointments, skip breakfast.
- For afternoon appointments, eat a light breakfast eight (8) hours before your appointment and skip lunch.
- A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
- Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed prior to the time of surgery. This includes all earrings and facial or intraoral piercings.
- If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach/bowel upset, etc. please notify our office as soon as possible prior to your surgery date.
This is especially important for children who are going to IV or General Anesthesia.
- Plan to rest for several hours after surgery. Do not drive a car, operate power tools, machinery, or make any important business, financial, or other decisions for 24 hours after surgery.