Rhinoplasty Preoperative Instructions FAQ
1) What do I do to prepare for surgery?
Although the preparation for your operation is pretty simple, it is an essential element in a successful outcome. To prepare for surgery, a preoperative appointment will be scheduled with one of our experienced nurses.
2) What happens at the preoperative appointment?
Many things! To name a few, you will meet with our nurses to review your health history, answer your questions, instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, receive the prescriptions for use after surgery and tell you what to expect. Most of the instructions are listed here. This list of questions, however, will not take the place of a preoperative visit, which is essential in determining a patient’s understanding and readiness for surgery. We will be sure you are signing for informed consent.
3) What does informed consent mean?
Informed consent means you have an excellent understanding about the benefits of surgery as well as any risks, and all the preoperative and postoperative information. You are making an “informed” decision as to whether surgery is right for you.
4) What are the risks of the procedure?
As part of your initial consultation, your physician will review your expectations for surgery. At that time, he can provide a realistic picture of what surgery can and cannot accomplish. We will provide you with a written list of any risks reported in the medical literature associated with any procedures you are considering. Although risks from cosmetic surgery are uncommon, every patient should be fully informed of every risk associated with surgery.
5) What are some of the other things to do to prepare for surgery?
We review your health history and any daily medications you may be taking. Because tobacco abuse impedes wound healing, you will be asked to stop for two weeks before surgery and two weeks following surgery. Our nurses will be happy to discuss over-the-counter aids to help you with this.
6) What about my daily medications before surgery?
You will have a preoperative appointment well in advance of your surgery when our experienced staff will review all medications with you. If you are on “blood thinners,” you will be asked to stop them approximately one week before surgery. We will provide a “Medication List” for instructions on medications and supplements prior to surgery.
7) I take vitamins and supplements. Do I need to stop them before surgery?
Most vitamins and supplements have few side effects. However, there are some such as vitamin E and ginko-bilova that can affect bleeding during surgery. We will provide a “medication list” that will provide more details. It is also imperative.
8) Do I need any special prescriptions before surgery?
Most patients do not need any special prescriptions before surgery. Please let us know of any special medical concerns you may have. We do ask you to start Vitamin C, which promotes wound healing, one week before surgery. We also ask you to start Arnica, a natural herb that significantly decreases bruising, the day before surgery. Medications used after surgery are discussed below. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery.
9) Why will I be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure?
Anesthesia medications can cause stomach upset. The best way to prevent after effects from anesthesia will be to avoid food or drink from midnight the night before surgery. For patients with special concerns, such as a patient with diabetes, our anesthesia team will be happy to address special arrangements with you ahead of time.
10) What kind of anesthesia will I have?
Using IV sedation (medicine administered through an IV) and local anesthesia (numbing medication administered in the surgical area), patients are asleep during surgery. Patients do not hear or feel anything and are comfortable while in the operating room. Patients wake up very soon after the surgery is completed. Intravenous sedation is a type of anesthesia; therefore all patients must have a responsible adult to stay with them through the night following surgery. Patients may not drive for 24 hours after their procedure and this time may be longer, depending on the procedure.
11) What happens when I check in for surgery?
Our nurses will help you get ready for surgery. Please let them know of any special needs you may have. Also, be assured that you have plenty of time for any last minute questions with your surgeon.
12) Does someone have to stay while I have my surgery?
No one needs to stay at the Lindsay House during your surgery. However, you must have someone available by telephone at all times during your surgery.
13) I’m concerned about privacy.
During a recent independent study, privacy was found to be one of the advantages that attracted people most to Lindsay House. Because all consultations, office visits, surgical and nonsurgical experiences take place at the same address, the check-in process is completely confidential.
14) What other instructions are there?
Glad you asked! See the postoperative instructions below.