Surgical Instructions

After Anesthesia

Day of Surgery

Immediately after Surgery: Patients who received a general anesthetic should return home from the office immediately upon discharge, and lie down with the head elevated until all the effects of the anesthetic have disappeared.  Anesthetic effects vary by individual, and you may feel drowsy for a short period of time or for several hours.  You should not operate any mechanical equipment or drive a motor vehicle for at least 12 hours or longer if you feel any residual effect from the anesthetic:

  • Do not drive or use appliances or equipment that could be dangerous, such as power tools, stove burners, lawnmower, or garbage disposals.  You should also not drive at all while on narcotic pain meds (as long as necessary until over-the-counter medications can be used in place of narcotics).
  • Watch for dizziness.  Walk slowly and take your time.  Sudden changes of position can also cause nausea.
  • Do not make any important decisions.  You may change your mind tomorrow.
  • Do not drink any alcoholic beverages.  The drugs in your body may cause a dangerous reaction to alcohol.

Diet:  If you feel nauseated or sick to your stomach, start with sips of water or ice chips.  If these liquids are tolerated well, then try to drink clear liquids like broth, apple juice, Gatorade, tea, or jello.  If still OK, after 30 minutes try full liquids, such as pudding, yogurt, milk shakes, and finally progressing to eating soft foods such as mashed potatoes, rice, overcooked pasta, scrambled eggs, or fish.

Discuss any questions you may have with your surgeon, Dr. Schenkman who can be reached at 508-699-0449.