Otoplasty (cont.)
What happens on the day of surgery?
It is important that you know precisely what time you are to
check in
with the surgical facility, and that you allow sufficient
preparation
time. Bring all papers and forms with you including any
preoperative
orders and history sheets. You should wear comfortable loose
fitting
clothes which do not have to be pulled over the head. Leave all
jewelry
and valuables at home. Remove all make-up with a cleansing
cream.
Thoroughly wash your face with soap and water. Do not apply
make-up or
cream to your face.
Do not take any medication unless instructed by your doctor or
the
anesthesiologist. Usually in the pre- operative holding room, a
nurse will
start an intravenous infusion line (IV) and you may be given a
medication
to help you relax.
What happens during surgery?
In the operating room, the anesthesiologist will usually use a
mixture
of a gas and an intravenous medication to put you to
sleep and
to maintain
your anesthetic at a safe and comfortable level. During the
procedure, you
will be continuously monitored including blood pressure, pulse,
oxygen
saturation (pulse oximeter), and heart rhythm
(EKG). The
surgical team is
prepared for any emergency. In addition to the surgeon and the
anesthesiologist, there will be a nurse and a surgical
technician in the
room.
Depending on what is required and whether or not you are also
undergoing
additional procedures, the surgery may take several hours. Your
doctor
will typically come to the waiting room to talk with any family
or friends
once you are safely to the recovery room.