What to Expect Before, During & After Surgery

Welcome, your surgeon chose Doylestown Surgery Center because of the quality care patients receive here and commitment to your safety by the entire staff. Every surgery or procedure is unique. You should always consult your physician with specific questions about your surgery or procedure. The following instructions are presented as general guidelines. If they differ from or contradict those given by your physician or nurse, always defer to the instructions from the medical professional.

Preparing for Surgery

• A staff member will call to confirm your surgery time and ask questions regarding your medical conditions, allergies, and medications. Your physician or a facility nurse will tell you what time you are to stop eating and drinking prior to your surgery.
• If you take medications or herbal remedies for any conditions, ask your physician or a facility nurse when to stop taking them.
• Notify your physician if there is any change in your health such as a cold, fever, sore throat or skin rash the week before your surgery.
• For women, if there is any possibility you are pregnant, please notify your physician and a facility nurse.
• If special financial arrangements are necessary, please call our business office at 267-383-4100 prior to your surgery date.

Day of Surgery

• No food or drink for at least eight hours prior to arriving at the surgery center; this includes mints, water and chewing gum.
• Avoid styling products, makeup, perfume and nail polish.
• You will be asked to remove contact lenses, dentures and any prosthesis.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing; upon arrival you will change into a gown and socks provided by the facility.
• Leave all valuables at home including watches, rings, jewelry and cash.
• Arrive promptly at the scheduled time to allow adequate time for admission procedures.
• Bring your picture ID, insurance cards, any paperwork from your physician (such as cardiology reports), a list of your medications, and a form of payment if your insurance company requires a co-payment.
• Arrange for an adult to drive you home after surgery; you will not be allowed to drive yourself home

Recovery Area

• After surgery you will be moved to the recovery area where you will be closely monitored until you are ready to go home.
• Due to Covid restrictions, family members of patients 18 and older are not permitted in patient care areas.
• It is normal to feel discomfort in the area of your surgical site. Depending on the type of anesthesia you receive during surgery, you may experience drowsiness, dizziness or nausea.

At Home After Surgery

• We care about your recovery after surgery. A nurse will call you to check on your progress.
• Your physician will provide specific instructions for care while recovering at home; in the event of any difficulty, please contact your physician.
• For the first 24 hours following surgery, do not engage in strenuous activities, drink any alcoholic beverages, drive, or make any critical decisions.
• In the event of medical need, a patient may require transfer and/or admission to a hospital.