Day-of prep
Surgery Day Checklist
Everything to wear, bring, and avoid on the day of your surgery — so you arrive ready and nothing gets delayed.
👕 What to wear
- Loose, comfortable clothing that's easy to change after surgery
- A shirt or top that buttons in front (especially for upper-body surgery)
- Flat, slip-on or low-heeled shoes
- Leave it makeup-free: no makeup, lotion, powder, or deodorant
- No nail polish or artificial nails (they can block oxygen monitoring)
🎒 What to bring
- Photo ID and insurance card
- A written list of all medications and doses
- Cases for glasses, contact lenses, dentures, or hearing aids
- Any forms, referrals, or paperwork your team requested
- A phone charger and a small amount of cash if staying overnight
- For children: a comfort item like a favorite toy or blanket
🚫 What to leave at home
- All jewelry and body piercings
- Valuables, large amounts of cash, and watches
- Contact lenses (wear or bring glasses instead)
The non-negotiable
🌙 The night before
- Confirm your arrival time and follow your fasting instructions
- Shower or bathe (you may be asked to use a special soap)
- Stop smoking — ideally 12–24 hours or more before
- Lay out your clothes and pack your bag so the morning is calm
- Get your medication plan straight: which to take, which to hold
Two things that delay surgeries most
2. Not stopping the right medications — see the list.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear on the day of surgery?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and flat, easy shoes. A front-buttoning shirt is ideal so you can dress easily afterward. Avoid makeup, lotion, deodorant, nail polish, and jewelry.
What should I bring to surgery?
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of your medications and doses, cases for glasses/contacts/dentures, and any paperwork your team asked for. Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home.
Why do I need someone to drive me home?
Anesthesia and sedation can affect your judgment and coordination for the rest of the day, so you can't drive. Most centers won't discharge you unless a responsible adult is taking you home.
Can I wear my contact lenses or jewelry?
No. Remove contact lenses (bring your case and glasses), and leave jewelry and piercings at home. These have to come off before surgery and can be lost or cause issues.