• Do not take any aspirin or aspirin-containing products, Motrin, Advil, Alleve or other pain or cold medications. Consult with your doctor if you are unsure about which medicines are OK to take.
  
• Do not take Vitamin E or fish-oil supplements.
  
• Do not take herbal supplements, diet pills or stimulants.
  
• Minimize alcohol intake until 2 weeks after surgery.
  
• Stop smoking if you do smoke.
  

1 week before surgery:

• Make arrangements for childcare, pet care and postoperative help.
  
• Make arrangements for a responsible adult to transport you to and from surgery -taxicabs are not permitted.
  
• Go to your appointment with Pre-admission testing (P.A.T.), if this has been arranged for you as part of your preoperative evaluation.
  

Day before surgery:

• Double-check the time of surgery, and the time at which you are required to check-in before surgery.
  
• Review arrangements for transportation to and from surgery.
  
• Set-up bedroom or recovery area with supplies or items you might like postoperatively like extra pillows, blankets, books, audiotapes, telephone etc.
  
• You are not allowed to eat or drink anything after midnight. Nothing Per Oral (NPO).
  
• Prescription medication may be taken with a small sip of water.
  

Day of surgery:

• You may shower and wash your hair.
  
• Wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing; front-button shirts or blouses are preferred.
  
• Do not wear make-up, perfumes or lotions.
  
• Do not wear contact lenses.
  
• Do not eat food- you are still fasting prior to surgery.
  
• Leave any valuables (watches, money, etc.) at home.
  
• Bring all prescription medications with you.
  
• Leave home in plenty of time, so you arrive on time and in a calm state of mind.
  

• The patient goes home with a light dressing around the head and neck.   Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication.
• Sutures are generally removed in stages between day 7 and day 14 after surgery. Swelling decreases to socially acceptable levels in 10-14 days.  
• Most patients can resume aerobic exercise 3 weeks after surgery.