Stage 2 of 8

The Day Before Surgery

Final preparations before your rhinoplasty. Everything you need to know about fasting, what to bring, and what to expect on the day.

Today's Tasks

Tomorrow is your surgery day. Here's what you should do today to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Wash Your Hair

This is important! You'll be wearing a nasal splint for about a week after surgery, and it must stay dry. Wash your hair thoroughly today - you won't be able to wash it properly until the splint comes off.

Light Dinner

Eat a light, healthy dinner this evening. Avoid heavy, fatty foods or excessive alcohol. Get a good night's sleep - try to relax and rest well.

Fasting Requirements

Following fasting guidelines is essential for your safety during anaesthesia:

  • No food for 6 hours before your admission time
  • Clear fluids only (water) until 2 hours before admission
  • No chewing gum, sweets, or milk-based drinks
  • Follow hospital-specific instructions - these take precedence if different

Important

If you don't follow the fasting requirements, your surgery may need to be postponed for safety reasons. Please take this seriously.

What to Bring on Surgery Day

Pack a small bag with these essentials:

  • List of current medications (including doses)
  • Lip balm
  • Tissues
  • Phone and charger
  • Glasses (if you wear contact lenses - you won't be able to wear them)
  • Comfortable, front-fastening clothing
  • Entertainment (book, music) for waiting

What NOT to Wear/Bring

  • Makeup or nail polish
  • Jewellery (including wedding rings if possible)
  • Contact lenses
  • Anything valuable
  • Tops that need to go over your head

Hospital Arrival

You'll typically arrive 30-60 minutes before your scheduled surgery time. The admission process includes:

  • Registration and paperwork
  • Meeting the anaesthetist
  • Final consultation with Mr Shoaib
  • Pre-operative photographs
  • Changing into a hospital gown

What Happens After Surgery

Understanding what to expect can help reduce anxiety:

Immediate Recovery

  • You'll spend approximately 4 hours total at the hospital
  • Expect to feel tired, groggy, or mildly nauseous - these are normal effects of anaesthesia
  • Your nose may feel blocked, swollen, or tender
  • Mild oozing from the nostrils is common in the first 24-48 hours

Pain Management

During surgery, the nose is flooded with local anaesthetic, so you'll likely wake up relatively comfortable. Any discomfort afterward responds well to the prescribed medications you'll be given.

Critical Requirement

Mandatory

A responsible adult must collect you from the hospital and stay with you for the first 24 hours at home. This is not optional - you cannot be discharged without confirmed arrangements for your care. Please ensure this is organised.

Going Home

When you're ready to leave:

  • You'll be given detailed post-operative instructions
  • Prescriptions for pain medication and any other required medications
  • An emergency contact number
  • Your follow-up appointment date (usually 7 days for splint removal)

At home, rest with your head elevated on extra pillows. Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity. Take your medications as prescribed and follow all post-operative instructions.

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