Before General Anesthesia

  • You may not have anything to eat for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment. You may have water up to four (4) hours prior to surgery. No water for four hours before surgery.
  • If not allergic, take two Ibuprofin (Advil or Motrin) or Aleve, at your last opportunity to drink water (four hours before your appointment). If you have an early morning appointment and do not wake up four hours prior to surgery, do not take theses medications until after surgery.
  • If an antibiotic has been prescribed, begin taking the medication after surgery when you are able to swallow.
  • No smoking at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking a week or two prior to the day of surgery, if possible. This will help reduce the risk of dry sockets.
  • A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home.
  • The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience.
  • Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes.
  • Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
  • Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
  • If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office.
  • If you take routine oral medications, please check with Dr. Shafqat prior to your surgical date for instructions.