Patient Information

It is important that you be well prepared for your upcoming surgery. The following includes information on what to bring, how to prepare and what to expect. Please also review the FAQ section of this website for more information.

Preparing for your surgery

Prior to your surgery date, an SMSC staff member will phone you to confirm the time of your surgery. At that time, you will be asked about any medications you are taking and if you have any current or past medical conditions or allergies. If you are taking medication, ask if you should take it the day of surgery. Your doctor or the SMSC nurse will instruct you as to the time after which you must not eat or drink. If you have any questions or particular needs or concerns, please let us know at this time.

If there is any chance you may be pregnant, or if there has been any change in your health, such as a cold, sore throat or fever, please notify your doctor and the SMSC nurse.

Bring your insurance identification cards with you on the day of your surgery. If special financial arrangements are necessary, please speak to someone in the SMSC billing office prior to admission.

Please be sure to bring any paperwork given to you by your surgeon and a list of any medications, supplements, herbal preparations or vitamins that you are currently taking.

If applicable, you should bring your healthcare power of attorney and/or guardianship papers.

Please do not bring any valuables or jewelry with you on the day of your surgery. This includes rings, earrings, watches, necklaces and money. While we do our best to safeguard your belongings, they are best secured at home.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of surgery.

Upon arrival, you will change into a gown and slippers, which we will provide. You will be asked to remove contact lenses, dentures and any prostheses.

Your recovery

After surgery, you will be moved to the recovery area where you will be closely monitored until you are ready to go home.

Once you have woken up, your family will be able to join you. Although times may vary, most outpatients are discharged one to three hours after surgery.

It is normal to feel discomfort after your surgery. You may also experience some drowsiness or dizziness, depending on the type of anesthesia you received.

At home after surgery

You will be provided with specific care instructions for your recovery. Please do not hesitate to call SMSC if you are having difficulty of any kind.

For the first forty-eight hours following surgery, you should not drink any alcoholic beverages, drive, make any critical decisions or engage in strenuous activities.

We will call you at home within forty-eight hours to evaluate your recovery.

You will be asked to complete a questionnaire about the care you received. We welcome your comments as they will enable us to continue to offer exceptional services.