In the clinic

The doctor will ask you questions about your health and medication. It is important that you inform the doctor about:

  1. All medical problems: Asthma, Diabetes, High blood pressure, Heart problems, Heart attacks, Strokes, Epilepsy
  2. Any allergies especially to: Antibiotics, Iodine, Elastoplast, Aspirin
  3. All drugs you are taking especially: Warfarin (or other blood thinning drugs), The contraceptive pill, Aspirin, Diuretics (water tablets)

The day before

  • In nearly all cases these operations are performed under a general (full) anaesthetic (you will be asleep). It is important therefore to have nothing to eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the operation.
  • As you will have had a general anaesthetic you cannot drive home after the operation and must make arrangements for an adult to be with you for the rest of the day.

The day of the operation

  • On the morning of the operation the doctor will see you, explain the operation to you again and confirm your consent for the operation. This is your chance to ask last -minute questions. An anaesthetist, who will explain how you will be sent to sleep for the operation, will also see you.
  • When it is time for your operation you will be wheeled through to a room next to the operating room (the anaesthetic room) when you will be sent to sleep before being taken through to the operating room.

After the operation

  • You will wake up in the “recovery room” where a nurse will check on you until you are fully awake. You may eat and drink when you feel able.
  • The doctor will explain the operation and results to you but most people find that they do not remember this and it has to be repeated in the clinic.
  • You can go home when you are awake and comfortable.