Before Surgery: What To Expect

Preparing for Surgery Starts Before Your Procedure

Preparing for surgery begins well before the day of your procedure. A preoperative visit helps identify health needs, reduce risk and make sure you know what to expect before surgery. At Lahey Clinic, preoperative care focuses on safety, clear communication and coordination across your care team.

This visit may include testing, a medical history review and education to help you feel informed and ready for surgery.

Pre-Op Testing

A pre-op appointment often includes testing to help assess overall health and identify any concerns before surgery. Testing may include:

• Pre-surgical blood tests
• Heart testing such as an electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Additional tests based on medical history or the type of surgery planned

This preoperative testing helps guide safe surgical care.

Medical History Review

A complete medical history review is part of the pre-procedure evaluation and assessment. This review may take place in person or over the phone and includes current medications, past surgeries and ongoing health conditions.

When needed, coordination may occur with your primary care or referring provider. Medical records may also be reviewed or requested.

Preparing You for Your Procedure

Education is a key part of preparing for surgery. During the preoperative visit, you will learn what to expect before, during and after your procedure. This includes information about recovery, activity, and follow-up care.

Preparation may involve coordination with surgery services and an anesthesia preoperative evaluation. Time is built in to ask questions and review next steps. 

Support is available to help plan your care, schedule appointments, manage next steps, and prepare for surgery. 

Additional Evaluations Personalized to Your Health

Some people may need additional testing, medication changes or care planning based on their health history or type of surgery. These evaluations help reduce risk and support recovery.

If you are preparing for cardiothoracic surgery, additional evaluations may be recommended. 

Multidisciplinary Team

The Preoperative Center team works together to support safe and coordinated care. The team may include:

• Physicians and advanced practice providers
• Nurses and care coordinators
• Anesthesiology specialists
• Support staff who help manage testing and scheduling

This team approach helps ensure you are fully prepared before surgery.