After surgery, you will be taken to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (recovery area) where you will be monitored and cared for while awakening from anesthesia.
- The nurse taking care of you will notify your family members when they may join you in the recovery area or your room.
- After you have awakened and your vital signs are stable, you will be discharged home to a family member or friend. Or you will be taken to your hospital room.
- Drowsiness should be expected the day of your surgery, and it is advised that a responsible adult stay overnight.
- Do not drive a car, operate machinery, drink alcoholic beverages or take non-prescription medication without your doctor’s permission for at least 24 hours after surgery because normal coordination and various reflexes may be impaired.
- Occasionally, some patients may need to be observed or treated in the hospital overnight or until they are well enough to go home.
- If you have OSA, you will be given information on Post Anesthesia concerns. It is highly recommended that you have an adult with at all times for 24 hours, use CPAP at all periods of sleep, and rest in an inclined position.
If you experience any unexpected pain, heavy bleeding or a high temperature after surgery, call your doctor or immediately go to the emergency room.