Preparing for Your Outpatient Surgery

Posted on April 8, 2022 in Plastic Surgery

Most facial plastic surgeries that Dr. Ransom performs are considered outpatient. Before your surgery date, it is important to be prepared and to know what to expect. Dr. Ransom can answer any questions during a consultation, but below is a general guide.

What is Outpatient Surgery?

Outpatient surgery is a type of surgery in which you are allowed to return home the same day as your procedure. Some people may also refer to this as “day surgery.” A majority of facial plastic surgery procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Some more extensive or complex procedures may require patients to stay in the hospital or surgical center overnight. Dr. Ransom performs surgeries at multiple hospitals and outpatient specialty surgery centers in San Francisco and Marin County.

Preparing for Outpatient Surgery

Prior to your outpatient surgery, you will be asked to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight. This includes drinking any water or having gum or mints. You can brush your teeth the morning of your procedure but should avoid swallowing any water as you rinse. You may be asked to take a Covid test 24-48 hours before your surgery as well.

Before you arrive at the hospital or surgical center, you should remove nail polish and jewelry, including nose rings, lip rings, or other facial and body piercings. Do not wear makeup or apply hair products. You will be asked to remove contact lenses, so it is best to wear or bring glasses to your appointment.

What to Expect During Outpatient Surgery

Prior to your surgery, you will be given an arrival time. Be sure to arrive at the hospital or surgical center on time. Upon your arrival, you will be given an ID bracelet to wear throughout your stay. You will first meet with a nurse who will ask questions about your health and take your blood pressure.

If your surgery is completed under local anesthesia, you will remain awake in the operating room throughout the procedure. You may be given medications to keep you calm throughout the process. If your surgery is performed under general anesthesia, you will be asleep throughout the procedure. Dr. Ransom can discuss these options during your consultation.

After Your Outpatient Surgery

After your surgery is complete, you will be taken to a recovery room. There, a nurse will frequently check your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. You may also be given medication according to Dr. Ransom’s orders. Many patients feel cold as they recover from anesthesia, and your nurse can provide extra blankets as needed.

While in the recovery room, you will be monitored for any potential complications. Once you are fully awake and alert and have successfully passed urine, you can return home. It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home from the procedure.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about a facial plastic surgery procedure that interests you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ransom. During your consultation, Dr. Ransom can answer any questions that you might have about the outpatient surgery process, including anesthesia, recovery, and more. Call our San Francisco office at (415) 877-6592 or contact us online.