Here are some of the most common questions about general surgery:
Will my insurance cover my surgery? Call your insurance company and let them know that you are having surgery, what kind of surgery and the date of your surgery. They will give you a summary of your benefits. If your surgery is elective, pre-authorization may need to be obtained and IB Surgery will submit the required information for pre-authorization. Surgery will not be scheduled until we know that we have that pre-authorization.
What will be my arrival time for surgery? The timing of your procedure is not figured out until the day before so you will receive instructions from the hospital or surgery center at that time.
What kind of prep will I need before my procedure? This depends on the type of procedure you are having. Some procedures will require a bowel prep, other procedures require just nothing to eat or drink after midnight. These instructions will be given when your surgery is scheduled.
Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight or go home the same day? This depends on the type of surgery you have. Your surgeon will advise you on what to expect in this regard.
What about my medications? Will I need to stop any of them before surgery? Bring your medications to your appointment with you so we can confirm what medications you are taking and advise you on how to take each medication before and after surgery. Blood thinners, for example, may have to be stopped for a period of time prior to surgery.
Will I need a driver? Yes. Most procedures we do require an anesthetic of some type. However, even if you do not have anesthetic, it would not be a bad idea to have someone come with you anyway. Some people get tense during their procedure and become shaky afterwards, even after a minor procedure. We would rather you get home safely instead of taking any chances.
How long will I be off of work? The amount of time off of work depends on the type of surgery that you have. Your surgeon and appropriate office staff will guide you on the expected time off.
Will I have any restrictions after surgery? This depends on the type of surgery you have. You may have lifting restrictions for a short period of time, or eating restrictions, or shower/bathing restrictions. You will not be allowed to drive if you are taking any narcotics or medications that would inhibit driving safely.
Will I see my surgeon after surgery? Yes. You will have a postop appointment 1, 2 or 3 weeks after surgery so we can check your incisions and make sure you are healing well and as expected.
When can I drive after surgery? After surgery you will be sore and have some limited mobility. Once you are completely off of any narcotic pain medications and once you feel that you can quickly slam on the brake if you needed to, you can drive. Your surgeon will advise you on what to expect for the timing of this.