At NCCRM, your health, safety, and successful recovery are our top priorities. Whether you’re scheduled for a minimally invasive procedure or a more complex surgery, proper preparation can reduce the risk of complications and help ensure a smoother recovery. Below are key steps to take before any surgery.
Shower With Disinfectant Soap the Night Before and Morning Of
Reducing bacteria on your skin before surgery is essential to preventing infection. We recommend showering both the night before and the morning of your procedure using an antiseptic soap like Hibiclens (chlorhexidine gluconate) or another cleanser approved by your surgeon. Focus on areas such as your armpits, groin, belly button, and surgical site—but avoid the face and genitals.
Why it matters: This simple step significantly lowers the risk of post-operative infection and supports a smoother healing process.
Remove All Jewelry and Piercings
You’ll be asked to remove all jewelry—including rings, earrings, necklaces, and body piercings—before arriving for surgery.
Why it matters: Jewelry can interfere with surgical tools and equipment, such as cauterization devices, and may increase your risk of burns or infection. It can also restrict circulation and may get lost during your procedure.
Remove Nail Polish, Artificial Nails, Makeup, and Lotions
Before surgery, remove all nail polish, acrylic nails, and makeup. Skip perfumes and body lotions as well.
Why it matters: Your medical team needs to see your natural skin tone, especially nail beds and lips, to monitor your oxygen levels and circulation. Products on your skin can interfere with monitors, reduce the effectiveness of adhesives, and increase the risk of infection.
Follow Fasting Instructions Exactly
Your care team will give you specific fasting instructions. In most cases, you should not eat or drink anything after midnight before surgery. Occasionally, you may be allowed clear liquids a few hours beforehand—follow your instructions exactly.
Why it matters: Eating or drinking before anesthesia can lead to serious complications, like food or liquid entering your lungs (aspiration).
Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
On surgery day, wear soft, loose-fitting clothes that are easy to take off and put back on—like zip-up tops or drawstring pants.
Why it matters: Comfortable clothing makes dressing easier after surgery and helps avoid irritation around bandaged or sensitive areas.
Arrange Transportation and Post-Surgery Care
Ask a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours after surgery—or longer if needed.
Why it matters: Anesthesia and medications can affect your coordination and judgment, even after the procedure. Having someone there supports your safety and comfort as you recover.
Discuss Medications With Your Doctor
Review all your current medications, including supplements, with your provider. Several days before, you may be asked to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Read more about pain management after tubal ligation reversal HERE.
Why it matters: Some medications can increase bleeding risk or interfere with anesthesia. Your care team will guide you through a safe plan.
Leave Valuables at Home
Bring only what you need: your ID, insurance card, and a list of your medications. Leave cash, jewelry, and unnecessary items at home.
Why it matters: This prevents loss or damage during your hospital or surgical center visit.
Prepare Your Recovery Space at Home
Set up your space before surgery so that when you return, everything is comfortable and accessible. Consider placing items you’ll need at waist level to avoid bending or reaching.
Why it matters: A stress-free environment supports recovery and reduces the risk of post-operative injury.
Care for Your Wound as Instructed
After surgery, your incision needs special care to heal properly. Follow all instructions from your medical team, including how often to change the dressing, whether to keep the area dry, and how to watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Read more about wound care and pain management after tubal ligation reversal HERE.
Why it matters: Proper wound care helps prevent infection, supports faster healing, and reduces the risk of complications that could delay your recovery.
Have Your Post-Surgery Helper Listen to Instructions
Ask the person who will help you after surgery to be present when your care team provides discharge instructions. Since you may feel groggy or disoriented from anesthesia, they should listen closely and take notes if needed. If you have questions or concerns, speak up before your procedure when fully alert.
Why it matters: When your helper understands your care plan, it reduces confusion at home and ensures you follow necessary recovery steps correctly.
Final Thoughts
Following these steps gives you the best chance for a smooth experience and optimal healing. If you have questions before or after your procedure at NCCRM, our team is always here to guide and support you.
Have surgery scheduled at NCCRM? Contact your surgical coordinator for any questions about preparation for your upcoming surgery.
