Operative Instructions

Medications

Do not take any aspirin containing medication including cold formulas for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. Please let us know if you are taking, or have been taking, any herbal supplements or vitamin E. These will need to be discontinued also. Please refer to the Medication List link for some frequently used medications that contain aspirin or an anti-inflammatory. These compounds have a tendency to decrease the average clotting capacity and increase bleeding during surgery. Tylenol may be used instead as it does not have these untoward effects. If you are on Tamoxifen, you need to stop taking this medication 2 weeks before surgery.

Smoking

Smoking compromises blood flow by causing spasm of blood vessels and significantly increases the risk of complications and wound healing problems. Therefore, DO NOT SMOKE for at least 8 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery. This also applies to second hand smoke; therefore do not stay in the room with cigarette smokers.

Hibiclens Soap

Use Hibiclens (over-the-counter antibacterial skin cleanser) in the shower instead of soap for 3 days prior to surgery. Apply the minimum amount of Hibiclens necessary to cover the skin from shoulders to thighs and wash gently. Rinse again thoroughly (be careful not to get the product on your face, eyes, or ears). You do not need a prescription for this.

Notification of Illness

Notify our office promptly if cold, fever, or any illness appears before surgery. Call in any allergies, medications, or conditions you may have forgotten to tell us about.

Eating and Drinking

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This includes gum, candy and water. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in cancellation or delay of your operation. If you are diabetic and take insulin you will be instructed how to take your medication and discuss this with your anesthesiologist during the preoperative visit.

Arrival for Surgery

Please be punctual. If you are running late please call ahead, but be aware that not arriving on time may cause cancellation of your surgery. The pre-operative area is on the 3rd floor of Smith Tower, 6550 Fannin and the telephone number is 713-441-6047.