Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Surgical Specialists — HickoryCall (828) 327-9178

Home / Before Surgery

Prepare for surgery with a simple plan.

Use this page as your checklist. Follow the written instructions from Dr. Henson’s office if they differ from anything you read online.

Universal pre-op checklist

Confirm insurance and ride home

The office works with your insurer on authorization. You must have a responsible adult drive you home after anesthesia. You cannot drive yourself.

Bring a complete medication list

Include prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. You will be told which to stop — often blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements — typically 7 days before surgery unless directed otherwise.

Stop nicotine when asked

Nicotine slows healing of muscle and skin and raises the chance a hernia repair will fail. If you smoke or vape, tell the team early so you have time to stop.

The night before

Nothing by mouth after midnight — no water, coffee, mints, or gum — unless the hospital gives a different instruction for a sip of medicine. Shower with the antibacterial soap (Hibiclens) if it was provided.

Day of surgery

Wear loose clothing. Leave jewelry and valuables at home. Bring photo ID, insurance card, and your medication list. Arrive at the time the hospital or surgery center assigned.

Preparation that is specific to your operation

Some procedures add extra steps. Open your procedure page so you are not guessing.

Bariatric

Mandatory 14-day liver-shrinking liquid diet before sleeve or bypass.

Bariatric pre-op →

Hernia

Stop smoking, pause blood thinners as directed, and plan lifting help at home.

Hernia pre-op →

Gallbladder

Usually outpatient. Fast after midnight and arrange a ride home the same day.

Gallbladder pre-op →

Do not start a new diet, supplement, or “detox” on your own in the week before surgery. If something is not on your instruction sheet, call the office first: (828) 327-9178.

This page is education, not a personal medical order. Follow the instructions printed for your case.