For patients who have received general anesthesia or IV sedation:

A nurse from Carolina Center For Specialty Surgery will call you at home the next business day after your procedure to ensure that you are recovering as expected. It is important that you get plenty of rest the following day.

It takes 24 to 36 hours for the full effects of the anesthesia to dissipate. During this period, it is essential that you follow these instructions:

1. You MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult when leaving the center, who may either drive you home or accompany you home in a taxi. Do not use public transportation.
2. Once you arrive home, it is common to feel sleepy. It is important that you rest quietly at home for the rest of the day.
3. Lie down if you feel dizzy or light-headed.
4. Avoid alcohol in any form for 48 hours. Do not take alcohol with pain medications or any product containing Tylenol.
5. Do not take any Tylenol or products that contain Tylenol while taking your pain medications.
6. Do not operate motor vehicles, boats, power tools, or machinery, or perform any task that requires mental alertness (such as cooking) for 24 hours.
7. Do not sign or enter into any legal contract for 24 hours.
8. We strongly suggest that a responsible adult be with you for the rest of the day and night following your procedure.

Following a general anesthetic, you may experience some muscular aches in your back or neck area, or even develop a sore throat or stuffy nose. These symptoms are not serious and should disappear in a short time. If you have any questions or problems regarding postoperative symptoms, or any associated concerns, please call your surgeon’s office.