Before Anesthesia

Proper preparation for anesthesia is crucial to ensure your safety and comfort during oral surgery. At Oral Surgery + of Lake Charles, we provide detailed guidelines to help you prepare for your procedure, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Pre-Anesthesia Instructions

1. Medical History Review

   • Inform Your Surgeon: Provide a comprehensive medical history, including any chronic conditions, allergies, and current medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements).
   • Update on Health Changes: Notify us of any recent changes in your health, such as colds, flu, or other illnesses.
     
     

2. Medications and Supplements

   • Medication Adjustments: Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding medications. Some medications may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery.
   • Avoid Blood Thinners: If you are taking blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin), your surgeon may advise you to stop these medications several days before the procedure.
     
     

3. Fasting Guidelines

   • No Food or Drink: Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at least 6-8 hours before your scheduled anesthesia time. This reduces the risk of aspiration (inhaling stomach contents into the lungs) during the procedure.
     
     

4. Alcohol and Smoking

   • Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours before your surgery.
   • No Smoking: Refrain from smoking for at least 12 hours before the procedure and ideally for 24 hours after. Smoking can interfere with anesthesia and healing.
     
     

5. Clothing and Personal Items

   • Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can be easily rolled up.
   • Remove Jewelry: Leave all jewelry and accessories at home to avoid any complications during surgery.
   • No Makeup or Nail Polish: Avoid wearing makeup, nail polish, or lotions on the day of the surgery.
     
     

6. Transportation and Support

   • Arrange a Ride: Ensure you have a responsible adult to drive you home after the procedure, as you will not be able to drive yourself.
   • Post-Op Caregiver: Have someone available to stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery to assist with your needs and monitor your recovery.
     
     

7. Preoperative Hygiene

   • Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth thoroughly before arriving for surgery, but do not swallow any water.
   • Bathing: Take a shower or bath the night before or the morning of your surgery to ensure cleanliness.
     
     

8. Arrival Time

   • Early Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled surgery time to complete any necessary paperwork and preoperative preparations.

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

• Preoperative Check-In: Upon arrival, you will check in and complete any remaining paperwork.
• Vital Signs and Preparation: Our team will take your vital signs and review your medical history once more. You will change into a surgical gown if required.
• Anesthesia Administration: Depending on the type of anesthesia, it will be administered by our skilled professionals to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

By following these pre-anesthesia guidelines, you help us provide the safest and most effective care possible. If you have any questions or concerns about preparing for anesthesia, please contact Oral Surgery + of Lake Charles. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way and ensure you have a positive surgical experience.