Preparing properly before surgery plays an important role in ensuring a safe procedure and smooth recovery. Many patients feel anxious before their scheduled surgery, especially if it is their first operation.
Pre-operative preparation helps reduce risks, allows the surgical team to plan safely, and ensures that your body is ready for the procedure.
In my clinical experience, patients who carefully follow pre-surgery instructions often experience smoother procedures and faster recovery.
These are general guidelines for gynecological and laparoscopic surgeries. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your surgeon and anesthetist.
If there is any change in your health before surgery, please inform our team immediately.
Proper preparation before surgery helps reduce surgical risks, improves recovery outcomes, and ensures safe anesthesia administration.
Preparing your body and informing your doctor about medical conditions allows the surgical team to plan the safest procedure.
Reduces risk of complications
Helps anesthesia work safely
Improves surgical planning
Promotes faster post-operative recovery
Ensures smoother hospital admission and discharge
Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
Patients often underestimate how important preparation is before surgery. Even small details—like medications or supplements—can influence the safety of anesthesia.
Certain health precautions and lifestyle adjustments are recommended in the days leading up to surgery.
Stop smoking at least 15 days before surgery
Avoid nicotine products and vaping
Smoking can affect wound healing and anesthesia safety
Inform your doctor about any:
Vitamins or nutritional supplements
Herbal medicines
Fat burners or wellness products
Over-the-counter medications
Some supplements may affect bleeding or anesthesia.
Please inform us if you have any medical condition such as:
Hypertension
Diabetes
Thyroid disease
Heart disease
Asthma
Psychiatric illness
If advised, obtain fitness clearance from your physician or specialist before surgery.
Please share information about:
Previous illnesses
Past hospitalizations
Any previous surgeries
Even minor procedures may be relevant for surgical planning.
You will receive a call from our hospital team with final pre-operative instructions and your surgery schedule.
Arrival time at the hospital
Expected surgery time
Fasting instructions
Final preparation guidelines
This call ensures that you arrive prepared and comfortable for your procedure.
Patients undergoing general anesthesia must follow strict fasting and preparation instructions for safety.
Do not eat anything 8 hours before surgery
Do not drink anything (including water) 6 hours before surgery
You may brush your teeth
Approved medicines may be taken with a small sip of water if advised
Shower and shampoo the night before or morning of surgery
On the day of surgery, do not apply:
Deodorant
Lotions or moisturizers
Oils or perfumes
Especially avoid applying products on the abdomen or chest area.
Please wear:
Loose and comfortable clothing
Button-up or zip-up top
Flat comfortable shoes
Warm cotton socks
Before surgery please remove:
Contact lenses
Dentures
Body jewelry or piercings
Nipple rings
Remove nail polish from at least the left index finger for monitoring during surgery.
Carrying the necessary documents and medical records helps ensure a smooth admission process.
All pre-operative test reports
Government ID (Aadhar card, driving license, etc.)
Reading glasses (if needed)
Warm cotton socks
All current medications in original packaging
Patients receiving anesthesia should not drive after the procedure.
Arrange for an adult to accompany you to the hospital
Someone should drive you home after surgery
If needed, our staff can assist with transportation arrangements
Patients are usually asked to arrive before the scheduled surgery time to complete pre-operative preparation.
Arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before surgery
This allows time for:
Admission process
Pre-operative evaluation
Final preparation
Procedures under local anesthesia require slightly different preparation compared to general anesthesia.
Avoid eating or drinking 2 hours before the procedure, unless instructed otherwise.
Shower normally the night before or morning of surgery.
Do not apply:
Moisturizers
Lotions
Deodorant
Wear:
Loose and comfortable clothing
Button-up or zip-up top
Comfortable shoes
In some cases, you may still need someone to accompany you home after the procedure.
Providing accurate medical information helps the surgical team ensure your safety.
Please inform us about:
Any medications taken on the day of surgery
Recent illness such as cold, fever, or urinary infection
Existing medical conditions
Previous surgeries or hospitalizations
Family history of major illnesses such as diabetes, cardiac disease, thyroid disorders, or bleeding conditions
Before surgery, the medical team will perform several standard preparation steps.
Confirmation of surgical plan and goals
Opportunity for patients to ask questions
Surgical site marking
Medical photography for documentation
Administration of pre-operative medications
Any remaining formalities will be completed before the procedure begins.
Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
I always encourage patients to ask questions before surgery. Understanding the procedure and preparation steps helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence.
Do not start, stop, or change any medications unless advised by your doctor.
Follow fasting instructions carefully before surgery.
Inform the hospital immediately if you develop fever, infection, or illness before the procedure.
Arrange safe transport and post-operative support as instructed.
These instructions provide general guidance for patients preparing for gynecological or laparoscopic surgery with Dr. Dimple Doshi.
They do not replace personalized medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions given by your surgeon and anesthetist, as individual recommendations may vary depending on your medical condition and type of surgery.