Patient Information

The following information is intended to help answer common questions that you may have on a range of different topics. If you find that your questions are not answered here provided please contact our friendly staff on 08 9707 3320 for further information.

Pre Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

  • Smoking will impact your body before and after surgery regardless of the type of procedure you have. We recommend that all surgical patients abstain from smoking for as long as possible before and after surgery.

    Smokers require special consideration and treatment when undergoing surgery. The effects of smoking-related diseases increase both anesthetic risks, as well as risks of complications during surgery and recovery.

    Conversely, anesthesia is safer and more predictable in nonsmokers due to better functioning of the heart, blood vessels, lungs and nervous systems.

    The earlier you quit, the greater your chances are of avoiding surgery-related complications. It is especially important not to smoke on the day of your surgery. Fortunately, the body begins to heal within hours of quitting. Twelve hours after a person quits, his or her heart and lungs already begin to function better as nicotine and carbon monoxide levels drop. It takes less than a day for blood flow to improve, which reduces the likelihood of post-operative complications. We recommend patients abstain from smoking for as long as possible before and after surgery, but even quitting for a brief period is still beneficial.

  • Do not bring valuables such as money, jewellery etc.
     
    Do not wear make-up
     
    Bring toiletries and loose fitting, comfortable clothing to wear upon discharge
     
    You will be required to remove contact lenses, jewellery, dentures, and wigs
  • Millions of Australians use herbal and homeopathic supplement for health benefits. It could be fish oil to improve memory or ginseng to boost your energy levels. They are considered “natural” and are sold in pharmacies supermarkets and health stores.

    Unfortunately, natural doesn’t necessarily mean safe, and this could be a big a problem for you, especially if you need to have surgery.

    We ask that all herbal supplements be stopped 4 weeks before surgery. That’s because these herbal medications can have side effects that could make surgery more dangerous for you.  Of particular concern are Ginseng, Garlic, and Gingko, Fish oil and St. John’s Wort, which increase the risk of bleeding.  

  • You should not drive any vehicle (including riding a bicycle) for at least 24 hours after a general anaesthetic. We do not permit people driving with alcohol in their blood. Similarly, you should be certain that all sedative drugs have been eliminated from your body before attempting to drive.  

    Most facilities require that you be accompanied by a responsible adult, who either drives you home or accompanies you in a taxi. This person or another adult should stay with you for the first night.

    We also advise all patients not to drive motor vehicles, operate machinery or make important personal or business decisions for at least 24 hours. This is because of any residual effects of drugs which might interfere with your ability to make decisions.