Preparation for surgery under local anaesthesia

Preparation for Surgery Under Local Anaesthesia

During surgery under local anaesthesia, you will be awake while the area being treated is numbed.

As a general rule, you do not need to fast before surgery under local anaesthesia unless you have been given different instructions. You may eat a normal light meal and drink as usual before your appointment.

On the day of surgery, the skin in the treatment area should be clean and free from cream, oil, make-up, or other skin products.

If you take blood-thinning medication, herbal remedies, or dietary supplements, any temporary pause must always be agreed with the surgeon. You should not stop medication or supplements on your own without prior agreement.

It is a good idea to arrange for a relative or friend to accompany you home after the procedure, especially if the surgery is more extensive.

For facial surgery, we recommend preparing for cooling at home, for example with cold packs or cool compresses. It is also helpful to be able to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights, for example using extra pillows.

It may be practical to have groceries and other essentials at home for a couple of days so that you can rest after the procedure and avoid unnecessary trips outside.

Standard over-the-counter pain relief is often sufficient after minor procedures. Depending on the type of surgery, the doctor may also recommend or prescribe stronger pain medication.

Before you leave AGATA, you will receive information about wound care, dressings, activity, pain relief, and, if relevant, removal of sutures.