Most patients arrive at the hospital with questions they never quite got to ask. As your anesthesiologist, I want to fill in those gaps.
The hours before your procedure aren't just logistics — they are a carefully designed sequence of steps that directly shape how smoothly your anesthesia works and how comfortably you recover.
Why Fasting Matters
You've likely been told not to eat or drink for several hours before surgery. The reason is straightforward: when you're under general anesthesia, your normal reflexes that prevent food from entering your lungs are temporarily suppressed. An empty stomach significantly reduces the risk of aspiration — one of anesthesia's most serious complications.
As a general guide:
- Solid food — stop eating at least 8 hours before your scheduled time
- Clear liquids (water, black coffee, apple juice) — allowed up to 2 hours before most procedures
- Medications — take as directed by your surgical team; most routine medications are continued
When in doubt, call your surgeon's office. The exact instructions can vary depending on your procedure and medical history.
Your Pre-Op Conversation
Before you enter the operating room, you'll meet with me or a member of the anesthesia team. This conversation matters. We'll review:
- Your full medication list, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs
- Any prior anesthesia experiences — good or difficult
- Allergies
- Your relevant medical history (heart conditions, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.)
If you've had nausea after anesthesia in the past, tell us. There are highly effective anti-nausea medications we can incorporate into your plan from the start.
What General Anesthesia Actually Feels Like
Many patients picture general anesthesia as "being put to sleep." It's more accurate to describe it as a carefully controlled, reversible state of unconsciousness. You will have no awareness, no pain, and no memory of the procedure.
Induction — the transition into anesthesia — is typically fast. After your IV is placed, you'll receive medication that works within seconds. Most patients describe it simply as: "I counted to three and then I was waking up."
Regional and Local Options
Not every surgery requires general anesthesia. For many procedures, regional techniques — such as a spinal block, epidural, or peripheral nerve block — are equally effective and come with distinct advantages:
- Less postoperative nausea
- Reduced need for opioid pain medications
- Faster return to normal cognitive function
I'll discuss which approach best fits your procedure and preferences during our pre-operative conversation.
Recovery: The First Hours
In the recovery room, a nurse will monitor you closely as the anesthesia wears off. You may feel groggy, cold, or mildly disoriented — all of which are temporary and expected.
Pain is managed proactively. We use multimodal strategies that combine non-opioid medications with targeted interventions, keeping you comfortable without unnecessary side effects.
If you have questions specific to your upcoming procedure, don't hesitate to reach out through the contact form on this site. Being informed before surgery isn't just reassuring — it's part of getting the best possible outcome.