Pre-surgery questions that we’re embarrassed to ask

A young woman in a hospital bed gives the thumbs up.

Preparing ready for surgery can sometimes feel overwhelming and stressful. And during the pre-surgery prep, there might be some questions you want to ask your surgeon or anaesthetist – that’s totally normal! Asking questions can help you be informed about your surgery and what you need to do beforehand. Plus, it might help ease any concerns you may have about the procedure. At nib, we want to make your hospital journey as simple and stress-free as possible. That’s why we've partnered with our clinical team to answer some of the most commonly asked surgery questions.

1. Should I shower before surgery?

Unless your doctor has told you not to, it’s a good idea to shower the evening before and the morning of your surgery. This can help reduce the chance of infection at the surgical site. Depending on the surgery you’re having, your surgeon might recommend using an antiseptic body wash or soap. Avoid shaving or waxing near the surgery site too because you might create tiny cuts that could cause an infection.

2. Can I wear deodorant before surgery?

Avoid using deodorants, powder, lotions and moisturisers on the day of the surgery. These products could make it difficult to stick monitoring dots on your skin to keep track of your vitals.

3. Can I wear makeup in surgery?

Avoid wearing makeup when you go in for surgery. Being able to see the natural colour of your skin helps your doctor to check for healthy circulation. Your anaesthetist might also gently tape your eyes closed during surgery to prevent damage to your eyes. That’s why you should avoid wearing eye makeup as small particles might irritate or damage the eye under the tape.

4. Can I smoke or vape before surgery?

Smoking or vaping comes with increased risks during surgery, such as lung complications, blood clots, and heart issues. The earlier you stop smoking or vaping before your surgery, the better. It’s recommended you don’t consume nicotine six to eight weeks before surgery. However, it’s vital you don’t smoke or vape at least 24 hours before surgery. Be honest with your anaesthetist when you’re asked about what and when you last smoked.

5. What happens with my valuables while I’m in surgery?

When you’re admitted into hospital, you’ll usually be provided with a lockable drawer or small safe for your valuables. But you’ll have more peace of mind if you remove the risk entirely by leaving anything valuable or precious at home instead of your bag.

6. Can I eat before surgery?

Your anaesthetist will give you instructions about when to fast and for how long. Generally speaking, most people will fast for at least six hours before general anaesthetic. This keeps you safe by reducing the risk that you will vomit or breathe food or liquid into your lungs.

Fasting means no chewing gum or breath mints. But it’s usually okay to take any necessary medication with a small sip of water (more on that next!). Instructions may vary from hospital to hospital and depending on the type of surgery. Make sure you get instructions from your nurse or doctor and follow them closely.

7. Can I take my usual medication before surgery?

This depends on the type of medication you take. Talk to your medical team well before your surgery about what medication you can continue to take. If you need to stop medication in the lead-up to your operation, ask when it’s safe to take your last dose. And if you’re staying overnight, you might need to bring a list of the medication you take so the hospital can provide it for you.

8. Can I drink alcohol before surgery?

Don’t drink any alcohol the day before and on the day of the surgery. Alcohol can affect anaesthetics, so your anaesthetist will need to know how much you drink and how often. On top of that, not drinking alcohol could help with the recovery process.

9. Can I wear jewellery or my wedding ring into surgery?

You’ll have to remove all jewellery before you head into surgery. It’s recommended you take everything off and leave it at home so it doesn’t get lost or misplaced. If you are worried that your wedding ring won’t come off, explain this to your specialist. In most cases, they will put tape or plaster over your ring.

10. What should I wear into surgery?

Just before your surgery you’ll be asked to change into a hospital gown. What you wear to and from the hospital is up to you. We recommend wearing something comfortable and easy to take on and off. Your clothes and underwear should also be clean to reduce as much bacteria near your skin as possible. Your footwear should also be easy to take on and off and have slip-resistant soles to prevent falls. You may want to include a change of underwear just in case.

11. Can I drive home after surgery?

If you’re having day surgery, you won’t be able to drive afterwards and will need to organise a way home. You might need to be accompanied home by your partner, a family member or friend. If not, you can always arrange for a taxi or rideshare to pick you up.

12. Can I use my mobile phone in the hospital?

You can generally use your phone in most parts of the hospital, but not in critical care or intensive care areas. If you’re not sure, check with a nurse before switching yours on. Be sure to respect others around you by keeping calls short and having your phone on silent mode.

13. How long will I be in recovery for after surgery?

After your surgery, you’ll be taken into a recovery room with other patients. Here, you’ll be closely monitored until you’re ready to be transferred to the ward. The amount of time you spend in recovery will depend on the complexity of the surgery, your response to the treatment and your overall health.

14. What should I do to recover?

No matter where you have to recover from surgery, it’s important to take things slow and steady. You might not be able to drive, work, lift heavy things or even do basic tasks like making breakfast. Whether it’s helping you get ready for the day or doing housework you can’t do, ask people you trust to help you out while you recover.

15. Do I need to take my nib card with me?

It’s a good idea to take your nib card with you to hospital, but if you do forget it, don’t stress. The hospital should have all your details on file before you’re admitted for surgery. You can also add your nib card to your phone so you don’t have to worry about leaving it at home.

16. Does someone need to wait with me during surgery?

You don’t have to have someone waiting at the hospital while you have surgery. If you do decide to bring someone for support, they’re usually welcome to wait in the reception area until you’ve been allocated a bed.

17. Can I wear acrylic nails or nail polish into surgery?

During surgery, your oxygen levels will be monitored by using a probe placed on your finger. Nail polish and acrylic nails can interfere with this, so you will have to remove the polish or acrylics before you arrive. Some surgeons might let you keep your acrylics on as long as you remove one from each hand. But it’s a smart idea to discuss with the hospital beforehand.

18. Can I wear my dentures in surgery?

Dentures can be a hazard while you’re under anaesthetic because they could become loose and block your airways. Your anaesthetist will ask you to take them out. But many surgeons understand that removing dentures can be traumatic. They will only ask you remove them right before your anaesthetic so you can remain comfortable during any preparation.

19. Can I wear a tampon during surgery?

If you have your period on the day of your surgery, let the surgeon, surgical nurse or anaesthetist know. Instead of a tampon, they will probably ask you to use a pad in case they need to catheterise you during your operation.

20. Do I need health insurance to pay for my surgery?

While you don’t technically need health insurance to pay for a surgery, it can help cover some of the costs of your procedure. Explore nib’s range of Hospital insurance options to find a policy that’s right for you. Or you can call us on 13 16 42 to find the right cover. Already an existing member? Make sure you check your procedure is covered using the Going to Hospital tool in your member account.

The information on this page is general information and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Do not use the information found on this page as a substitute for professional health care advice. Any information you find on this page or on external sites which are linked to on this page should be verified with your professional healthcare provider.