General Anaesthetic
Surgery which are performed with general anaesthesia usually are done in hospitals, which puts you in a sleep like state so there is no pain during surgery. In most cases you will be admitted to hospital on the day of your surgery.
Do not eat or drink for 6 hours before surgery, If your surgery will be performed in the morning, do not eat or drink after midnight the night before.
Modern anaesthesia is safe with few risks. However, a few people may have serious reactions to them. If you ever had a reaction to an anaesthetic drug, tell your surgeon.
If there’s a change in your physical condition, such as cold / flu or fever. If you have any radiographs/ x rays, please bring them to the hospital.
No chewing gum before the anaesthetic as this will produce excess saliva which will pool in your stomach. If you are on any medication, it is essential to bring them to the hospital with you.
You should not be on Aspirin for at least 2 weeks before the operation.
Local Anaesthetic
With Intravenous Sedation
This involves an injection of sedation medication by an anaesthetist, via a vein in the arm or the back of the hand. This reduces your memory of the operation while producing relation and better pain control. In addition to this, a local anaesthetic is also given to numb the area of operation.
Do not eat or drink for 6 hours before surgery, if your surgery will be performed in the morning, do not eat or drink after midnight the night before.
Avoid alcohol 48 hours prior to operation. Remember, no chewing gum before the anaesthetic as this will produce excess saliva which will pool in your stomach. You should not be on Aspirin for at least 2 weeks before the operation.
You will need someone to drive you home and watch you for 24hrs after surgery.
Local Anaesthetic
This involves a local injection of anaesthetic which causes numbness of the area to be operated. This is usually performed at the practice or hospital setting while you are awake.
Make sure you have a good amount of food and ensure you are adequately hydrated before the procedure.
Avoid excessive hot/ cold foods or drink while the area is still numb as you may chew on your lip or cheek and cause an injury.
You should not be on Aspirin for at least 2 weeks before the operation.
Usually you are able to drive yourself to and from your procedure.
