Before Anesthesia

• You may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment. If your anesthesia is for IV sedation, rather than general anesthesia, then you must not drink or eat anything for four (4) hours prior to your surgery. You may take necessary medications that morning with a “small” sip of water, and only water. It is especially important to take your blood pressure medications on schedule. Please call our office if you have questions concerning this topic at (770)664-5550.
• If you are on blood thinners, such as Coumadin, or Plavix, it typically is necessary to discontinue their use a prescribed time prior to surgery. This must be discussed with Dr. Loetscher prior to surgery, during your consult.
• No smoking at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible prior to the day of surgery.
• A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
• The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience.
• Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes.
• Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
• Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
• If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office.
• If you take routine oral medications, please check with Dr. Loetscher prior to your surgical date for instructions.