Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of San Buenaventura
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Ventura, CA
805-648-5121

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Instructions Regarding Anesthesia

A word on fasting before surgery.

It is a well-established practice to ask patients scheduled for any type of surgery utilizing General Anesthesia to fast for a minimum of 8 hours prior to surgery. This is done for the patients’ safety. Consumption of even small amounts of solids or liquids causes the stomach to secrete digestive acids and enzymes.

These substances are extremely harmful to the tissues of the lungs. During General Anesthesia the normal reflexes that prevent you from inhaling liquids are subdued. Therefore, any sort of regurgitation of the stomach contents could lead to life threatening complications. We ask that you follow the instructions carefully for your safety and to avoid cancellation of your procedure.

  • Please do not eat or drink for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment.
  • Please do not chew gum or use breath mints prior to your procedure.
  • You may have few sips of only water or small amount of ice chips up to 2 hours prior to surgical appointment time.
  • No smoking at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible prior to the day of surgery.
  • Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and flat bottom or athletic type shoes.
  • Do not wear prescription or cosmetic contact lenses if possible.
  • Contact lenses and dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
  • Please leave all your valuables such as jewelry, watches, Cell phones, etc. at home or with your driver.  You will not be allowed to bring these items into our surgical suites.
  • Do not wear lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery.
  • Bring a sweater or warm blanket for the ride home.
  • 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.
  • If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office as soon as possible prior to your procedure.
  • If you take routine oral medications, please check with our office prior to your surgical date for instructions for possible modification of your regimen.

If, after your procedure, you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us at: 805-648-5121 or 805-646-2944.