Once you are in stable condition, you will be discharged.  Most patients are discharged one to five hours after surgery for outpatient procedures.  It is normal to experience sleepiness and dizziness for 12 to 24 hours after surgery.

• Before you leave the hospital you will be given written instructions for your care at home.  It will be necessary to discuss these instructions with an adult who is accompanying you as the influence of your anesthesia could affect your ability to remember and understand the instructions.
• After you have returned home, be sure to follow your doctor’s orders regarding diet, rest, medication and activity.  Unless directed otherwise, you should start your diet with clear liquids.  In four to six hours, you can begin to eat solid foods.  By the next day, you should be back to your normal diet.  Do not sign any important papers or make any significant decisions for at least 24 hours.
• If you have any questions or problems after surgery, please contact your physician.
• A nurse from Northwest Hills Surgical Hospital will phone you the day after your procedure to see how you are and answer any additional questions you might have.  If your surgery is on Friday, a nurse may not call you until the following Monday.
• Do not drive a car, smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, operate machinery, or cook for 24 hours after surgery.