Before Your Procedure

Shortly before your scheduled procedure, a representative from Mackinaw Surgery Center will call to confirm details of your appointment. If we can’t reach you, make sure to call us no later than the day before surgery. We’ll need to know about current and past medical conditions, current medications and allergies. This is also the perfect opportunity to discuss any questions or special needs you may have.

  • Please do not eat or drink anything by mouth 6 hours before your arrival time as this can cause postoperative nausea and vomiting if you do.
  • If you routinely take any medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, ask your physician before taking on the day of your procedure.
  • For female patients, let your doctor know if there’s any chance you could be pregnant.
  • Leave valuables like watches, jewelry and wallets at home.
  • Tell your physician if there’s any change in your health such as cold, fever, sore throat or other changes in your health.
  • Plan to have an adult drive you home after your procedure, as you will not be permitted to drive.

Day of surgery

  • Arrive on time so we can help you with all the necessary admission procedures.
  • You’ll need your insurance and a photo ID for admissions.
  • If you need to make special financial arrangements, give us a call before admission.
  • Bring a credit card, checkbook or cash if you have a deductible or co-pay due on the day of surgery.
  • Be sure to bring a list of your current medications and any paperwork your doctor may have given you, such as test results or medical history.
  • Dress comfortably. We suggest loose-fitting clothes that will fit over bandages.
  • When you arrive, we’ll provide a gown and slippers for you to change into, and you will need you to remove all jewelry, contact lenses, dentures, and any prosthesis.

In the recovery area

Immediately following your procedure, we’ll move you to a recovery area where we can monitor you until you’re discharged, usually within 1-3 hours after surgery. Once you’re fully awake, your family can join you in the recovery area, too. At this time, it’s normal to feel some discomfort at the surgery site, as well as some drowsiness or dizziness, depending on what anesthesia you received.

Recovering at home

Before being discharged, your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for yourself at home. For the first 24 hours following your procedure, you should avoid strenuous activity, alcoholic beverages, driving and making critical decisions. Within a day or two after your procedure, we’ll follow up to ask how recovery is going; if you’re having any difficulty at all, let us know or contact your physician.