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Preoperative Instructions

Do I need to do a bowel prep?
No bowel prep (colon cleanse) is needed before surgery. But it is a good idea to eat a healthy diet that includes vegetables and fiber in the days leading up to your surgery to help with post-op constipation.
Most medicines can be taken up to the day of surgery, including in the morning of surgery with a sip of water. Blood thinning medications are an exception, and when to stop those is determined individually. Aspirin has blood thinning properties so it should be avoided in the week before surgery, as should vitamins or supplements with blood thinning properties.
We want the stomach to be empty to avoid the risk of aspiration (stomach contents getting into the lungs) during anesthesia, so your last solid meal should be no later than midnight the night before your surgery. Small amounts of clear liquid are OK up to two hours before surgery. It has to be clear liquid though, like water or Gatorade or black coffee. Coffee with milk or juice with pulp are not considered clear. Also, keep in mind that if you are not the first surgery of the day, sometimes the time moves up a little so be on the conservative side with the two-hour rule.
You should arrive 2 hours before your scheduled time. Keep in mind that, unless you are the first case of the day, the time is just approximate, based on an estimation of when the previous surgery will be completed. Bring something to read or keep you occupied while you are waiting. If we are ahead of schedule, we may call you to come in earlier.
Loose fitting, comfortable clothing is best. Don’t wear jeans or constricting waistbands. You might want to bring a pillow and/or blanket with you for the car ride home.
  • Stock up on easy meals and snacks
  • Have cold and hot compresses ready or purchase as needed
  • Have books, magazines, or movies ready
  • Arrange visitors to help you as needed the first few days, to lift your spirits, or to assist with pet or child care
Yes, we will meet you in the pre-op area, confirm the surgical plan, and answer any remaining questions.
If your loved one is not going to stay at the hospital while you are in surgery, we will get a number to call that person to pick you up when your operation is complete. A responsible adult needs to drive you home after surgery; you can’t be released in a taxi or ride-share service. If your loved ones are going to be at the hospital during surgery, we will call them while you’re being transferred to the recovery room. If you don’t want us to discuss the details of the operation, please let us know.
Follow-up questions are welcome. Call (310) 388-1955. Questions are addressed either by our nursing staff or directed to the medical team and we will call you back.