Why preparation matters
Preparing for surgery is a partnership between you and your medical team. Following the instructions you are given lowers the risk of complications, avoids last-minute cancellations and sets you up for a smoother recovery.
Preparing in the weeks before surgery
Medical tests
Complete any blood tests, heart tracing (ECG), chest X-ray or specialist checks your team asks for. Bring a full list of every medicine, vitamin and herbal supplement you take.
Medicines to review
Only stop a medicine if your surgeon tells you to. Blood thinners such as aspirin, warfarin or clopidogrel, anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and supplements such as vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic and fish oil can increase bleeding, so your team will tell you whether and when to stop them.
Lifestyle
Stop smoking or vaping and avoid alcohol. Even a few weeks without smoking improves breathing and wound healing.
The night before and the morning of surgery
Skin preparation
You may be asked to wash with an antiseptic (chlorhexidine) soap the night before and the morning of surgery. Do not use lotions, powders, perfume or deodorant afterwards.
Fasting
Stop eating solid food, sweets and chewing gum about 8 hours before your admission time. You may be allowed clear fluids such as water until about 2 hours before. An empty stomach keeps you safe under anaesthesia, so follow the exact times your hospital gives you.
On the day
Take only the medicines your team has approved, with a small sip of water. Remove make-up, nail polish, jewellery and piercings, wear glasses instead of contact lenses, and choose loose clothing that fits over dressings.
Extra steps for your type of surgery
Breast cancer surgery
Do not use deodorant or powder under either arm on the day of surgery, as it can affect imaging and lymph node mapping. Bring a top that opens at the front, as lifting your arms may be difficult afterwards.
Gastrointestinal surgery
Before a colectomy, low anterior resection or abdominoperineal resection you may need a bowel preparation drink and a clear-fluid diet the day before. Before major operations such as a Whipple procedure or oesophagectomy, you may be given special nutritional drinks for five to seven days to support healing.
Aftercare at home
Wound care
- Keep your dressings dry for the first 24 to 48 hours, or as long as your surgeon advises.
- Once you can shower, wash the wound gently with mild soap and water and pat it dry. Do not scrub.
- Avoid baths, hot tubs and swimming pools until your team confirms the wounds have healed, usually after four to six weeks.
- Check your wounds every day. A small amount of clear or slightly pink fluid is normal.
Pain and activity
- Take your pain relief as prescribed, before the pain becomes severe.
- Move to simple painkillers such as paracetamol as you improve, only as your doctor advises.
- Do not lift anything heavier than about 2 to 4 kg for at least four to six weeks.
- Walk around several times a day. Short, frequent walks help prevent blood clots and keep your lungs and bowels working.
After breast surgery
- If you go home with a drain, empty it two to three times a day and record the amount.
- If lymph nodes were removed, avoid blood tests, injections and blood pressure readings on that arm, and avoid tight sleeves or jewellery on that side.
- Wear a soft, wire-free, front-opening support bra day and night unless told otherwise.
After gastrointestinal surgery
- Eat six to eight small meals a day, chew well and eat slowly.
- Drink plenty of water, as pain relief can cause constipation, and take a stool softener if prescribed.
- If you have a stoma, empty the pouch when it is one-third to half full and clean the skin around it gently with warm water.
Warning signs: when to get help
Contact your surgical team or your coordinator straight away, or seek emergency care, if you notice:
- A temperature of 38°C or higher
- Spreading redness, warmth or swelling around a wound
- Thick, yellow or bad-smelling discharge from a wound
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
- New pain, swelling or tenderness in the calf or leg
- Ongoing nausea or vomiting, or being unable to keep fluids down
- No bowel movement or wind for two to three days after returning home
Preparing for and Recovering from Cancer Surgery FAQ
Should I stop my blood thinners before surgery?
Only if your surgeon tells you to. Some medicines need to be stopped several days before surgery, and others must be continued or replaced. Bring a full list of your medicines so the team can advise you.
Who do I contact if I have a problem after I return home?
Contact your coordinator, who will pass your question to your surgical team. In an emergency, go to your nearest emergency department and show them your discharge report.
