Generally, you will be instructed to fast (avoid eating or drinking) for eight (8) hours for
all types of anesthesia before your procedure to reduce the risk of complications.
Specific instructions will be provided by an anesthesia provider 1-2 days before your
procedure.

Some medications should be taken, and others should not, including herbal medicines
and other dietary supplements. It is important to discuss this with your anesthesiologist.
Do not interrupt your blood pressure, diabetes, or any other medications unless your
anesthesiologist or surgeon recommends it. If you consume cannabis products in any
form, please discontinue them 3 weeks before your scheduled procedure.

Before anesthesia, you will undergo a pre-anesthesia assessment with an anesthesia
provider, which includes reviewing your medical history, discussing any allergies or
medications, and understanding the anesthesia plan tailored to your procedure.

Anesthesia options include local anesthesia (numbing a specific area), regional
anesthesia (blocking sensation in a larger area), sedation (lightly putting the patient at
ease or to sleep), and general anesthesia (putting the patient into a deep sleep).

General anesthesia is very safe, ten times safer than flying, and anesthesia-related
mortality rates are extremely low. Some anesthesia-related adverse events include
allergic reactions, breathing issues, or adverse effects related to specific health
conditions. Your anesthesiologist will take steps to minimize these risks.

After anesthesia, you might experience grogginess, nausea/ vomiting, or a sore throat if
general anesthesia was used. These effects typically subside within a few hours, and
your recovery will be monitored by healthcare professionals.

Before returning to work or any strenuous activity, it is important to speak with your
surgeon. Patients should also not drive if they are feeling drowsy, drink alcoholic
beverages, or make important life decisions for at least 12 to 24 hours depending on the
type of anesthesia they received.