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Surgery Preparation
Before Any Surgery — Optimizing Your Outcome
Good preparation makes surgery safer and recovery faster. Use this guide to get your body and mind ready in the weeks and days before your operation.
2–3 Weeks Before
- Stop smoking and alcohol — this greatly lowers complications and helps wounds heal.
- Eat a balanced, protein-rich diet; correct anaemia with iron-rich foods as advised.
- Keep blood sugar, blood pressure and thyroid well controlled.
- Stay gently active — a daily walk improves fitness for surgery.
- Complete all tests/scans we advise before the date.
Medicines to Discuss With Us
- Blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin) — we will tell you exactly when to stop.
- Diabetes medicines and insulin — doses may change around surgery.
- Herbal, ayurvedic or supplement pills — some increase bleeding; tell us everything you take.
The Night Before
- Have a light, early dinner and follow the fasting time we give you (usually no food 6–8 hours before).
- Bathe well; remove nail polish, makeup and jewellery.
- Arrange a responsible adult to accompany you and take you home.
- Try to sleep well — rest helps recovery.
What to Bring
- ID, all reports and scans, and a written list of your medicines.
- Loose, comfortable clothes, slippers and sanitary pads.
- Leave valuables and jewellery safely at home.
When to Call Your Doctor
- You develop fever, cough, cold or any infection before surgery.
- You are unsure whether to stop a blood thinner or any medicine.
- Your period starts or you think you may be pregnant.
By Dr. Neha Singhania, Gynecologist – Navi Mumbai · This leaflet is for general information and does not replace personal medical advice.