The Day Before Surgery

It's Normal to Feel Nervous

Feeling anxious the night before surgery is completely normal. Remember that you've chosen an experienced surgeon, you're well-prepared, and tomorrow you'll be taking an important step toward your goals.

Focus on following the practical instructions below, and try to get a good night's rest.

Fasting Instructions

Following fasting guidelines is crucial for your safety during general anaesthesia. Your specific instructions may vary, but typical guidelines are:

Food

• Last meal: 6 hours before surgery - eat a light, healthy meal (avoid heavy, fatty foods).
• No food or chewing gum after this time.

Clear Fluids

• Last clear fluids: 2 hours before surgery - you can drink water, clear juice, or black tea/coffee (no milk).
• Stay well-hydrated throughout the evening.
• No alcohol.

What to Pack for Hospital

Keep your hospital bag simple - you won't need much:

Essential Items

• Comfortable, loose clothing to go home in - maxi dress, loose pajamas, or sweatpants with zip-up hoodie. Remember you'll be bent over and wearing a compression garment.
• Slip-on shoes or slippers - you won't be able to bend down.
• Dressing gown - for walking around the ward before discharge.
• Personal toiletries - toothbrush, face wipes, deodorant (avoid perfume on surgery day).
• Phone and charger - to keep in touch with family.
• List of current medications - written down clearly.
• Compression garment - if you were asked to bring your own.

Leave at Home

• Jewelry, watches, and valuables
• Contact lenses (wear glasses instead)
• Makeup and nail polish (must be removed before surgery)
• Hair accessories with metal

Personal Hygiene

• Shower thoroughly the night before using your regular soap. Some surgeons may provide antibacterial wash - use as directed.
• Remove all makeup, nail polish, and jewelry including piercings.
• Wash your hair - it may be several days before you can wash it again comfortably.
• Don't apply lotions, creams, or deodorant on the morning of surgery.

Final Preparations at Home

Double-Check Your Recovery Space

• Recliner or bed with pillows arranged for elevated sleeping
• Recovery supplies within easy reach
• Clear pathways - remove trip hazards
• Meals prepared and easy to access
• Clean bedding and towels

Confirm Logistics

• Confirm arrival time at hospital (usually 1-2 hours before surgery)
• Confirm who is collecting you and when
• Ensure caregiver knows they'll be needed for at least the first week
• Have emergency contact numbers saved in your phone

Mental Preparation

Take time to mentally prepare for the journey ahead:

• Review the next stages of this Recovery Hub so you know what to expect
• Accept that the first 1-2 weeks will be challenging but temporary
• Remember why you chose to have this surgery
• Trust in your surgeon and the care team
• Plan to be kind to yourself during recovery

On Surgery Morning

• Shower if permitted and within fasting times
• Don't apply any lotions, creams, makeup, or deodorant
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing
• Take only approved medications with a tiny sip of water (as advised by surgeon)
• Leave valuables at home
• Arrive at the specified time - not too early or late

What Happens Next

When you arrive at the hospital:

• You'll be checked in and shown to a pre-operative area
• You'll change into a surgical gown
• The nursing team will check your vital signs and medical history
• You'll meet with your surgeon who will mark your abdomen for surgery
• The anaesthetist will discuss the anaesthetic and answer questions
• You'll be taken to the operating theatre when ready
• After surgery, you'll wake up in recovery with your compression garment and drains in place