Overnight stay

Preparing for your surgery will be slightly different depending on whether you are having your operation under a local or a general anaesthetic. You will be told which type of anaesthetic you need before the day of your operation.

Local anaesthetic

If you are having a local anaesthetic, you can continue to eat and drink as normal and should take any medications as usual before your operation, unless told otherwise by the nurse at your pre-assessment appointment. You will remain fully clothed during your operation, but please wear a button-fastening top such as a shirt or blouse.

General anaesthetic

If you are having a general anaesthetic, you must have nothing to eat from 12:00 midnight on the morning of your operation. You may drink clear water only, not fizzy (and no more than a maximum of 500ml), up to 6:00 am and nothing after that. You should not chew chewing gum. You will need to change into a theatre gown prior to surgery, so you might want to bring a dressing gown with you. We also suggest that you bring a tooth brush and tooth paste to keep your mouth fresh while fasting. If you wear dentures, you might be asked to remove them just before going to theatre.

Whether you are having a local or a general anaesthetic, please follow these instructions:

Leading up to your surgery

• It is a good idea to bathe and wash your hair the day before your operation, as you might be unable to do so for the first few days after surgery
• Ensure you have enough food and essentials to last a couple of days at home because you might not feel like shopping
• Make sure you give your family and/or friends plenty of notice about your operation so someone can accompany you to hospital or help you home after your procedure, if necessary.
• Check your hospital's policy on admissions and visiting times.
• Think about what to pack - we have a recommendation list below.
• Remove nail varnish, makeup and/or jewellery, except for your wedding ring, if you wear one
• Plan to wear flat shoes

You are advised to obtain a roll of surgical tape prior to surgery from your local pharmacy as you might need to wear a shield at night for up to two weeks following your operation.

Getting to and from hospital

• Make travel arrangements for getting to and from the hospital. 
• You will not be able to drive yourself home, so you should arrange transport or ask a friend or relative to help.
• In some cases, we may be able to arrange transport home for you. Speak to a member of our team for more information.

As there is limited space on the ward, please bring only one friend or relative with you on the day of your operation

Fasting before surgery, if required

• Follow your consultant's instructions about not eating or drinking before surgery. This includes water, sweets, light snacks etc. An empty stomach helps prevent vomiting during surgery while you're under anaesthetic.
• If you take insulin for diabetes, you still need to fast. But tell your medical team so they can take precautions.

Remember to bring your appointment card or admission letter with you.

Recommended items

• A nightdress or pyjamas
• Day clothes
• Clean underwear
• Dressing gown and slippers
• Small hand towel
• Toiletries – soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hairbrush/comb
• Sanitary towels or tampons, if required
• Small amount of money
• All medicines you normally take, prescription, over the counter and natural, and a list of the doses for each medicine
• Glasses or contact lenses with case
• Shaving kit
• Important phone numbers, including your GP's contact details
• Wear flat shoes

Additional items 

Your time at the hospital might involve long periods when nothing much happens; for example, the waiting time between tests or treatments. You may want to bring items that will help you pass the time.

• Book or magazines
• Notebook and pen
• Games
• Healthy snacks

Money and valuables

• Please don't bring expensive items or large amounts of money with you when coming to the hospital. 
• Our team cannot store laptops or tablets such as iPad on your behalf.
• Unfortunately, we cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to personal property of any kind, including money and laptop computers, regardless of how the loss or damage may occur. 

We advise that you check with your hospital about their policy on the use of mobile phones, MP3 players and laptops or tablets during your hospital stay.

If you're unable to attend your hospital appointment or do not feel well enough to have your operation, contact your treatment department and the hospital treating you know as soon as possible. They'll be able to talk to you about rearranging the appointment.

Let your consultant know if you develop a cough, cold or high temperature a few days before surgery. They'll advise whether your operation can go ahead.