If you have never had surgery before, you may be feeling anxious or unsure about what to expect. The good news is that with a little preparation beforehand, you can go into your first surgery with confidence and peace of mind. Below we will discuss some of the ways you can get ready for your first surgery.
1. Consult with Your Surgeon
Your surgeon will be there from beginning to end to answer any questions you have and walk you through what the entire process will be like. Your surgeon should go into detail with you about the type of surgery, any risks associated with it, and what to expect during recovery.
It is important to speak up about any questions or concerns you have during this time to ensure that you feel informed and comfortable about the surgery before the operation. No question is too small; the important thing is that you go into the surgery with confidence and knowing what to expect.
2. Pre-Surgery Preparation
You will likely get specific instructions about how to prepare for your surgery. Some common pre-surgery instructions include
- Fasting
- Stopping certain medications
- Planning for transportation post-surgery
Following these instructions will keep you safe and ensure that your surgery goes as smoothly as possible.
Your doctor may also ask you to make certain health and lifestyle changes ahead of your operation including
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising
These things can help make sure you stay healthy leading up to the surgery and make your recovery faster and easier.
3. Emotional Preparation
Along with preparing your body physically, it is important to prepare mentally. Surgery can be a stressful experience, and it is common to have feelings of anxiety or worry leading up to the surgery. However, it is important to remember that you are in good hands with your medical team. Some things that can be helpful leading up to your surgery is talking through your anxiety with your doctor or a therapist, sharing your thoughts with friends or family, or practicing meditation.
4. Recovery
Not only is it important to know what to expect before your surgery, but after as well. Your surgeon will be able to tell you what to expect as far as pain or discomfort, and they may also provide some exercises or recommend physical therapy after the surgery to help you rebuild strength and mobility in the area.
Make sure to follow any post-operation instructions you receive, which may include
- How to manage pain
- How to clean the area that was operated on
- Instructions about rest and movement
When you take the time to properly prepare for your upcoming surgery, you will reduce any feelings of uncertainty or anxiety and set yourself up for a successful operation and recovery.