Rules about when to stop eating and drinking are created to keep patients safe! It is very important for every patient to have an empty stomach before any surgery or procedure that requires anesthesia. If there is food or liquid in the stomach, there is a risk of aspirating, or inhaling food or liquid into the lungs during anesthesia, which can cause serious problems including lung problems and even death.

Adults will typically feel sleepy, and slightly groggy for a few hours after the procedure. Memory and judgement may be impaired for the remainder of the day. You may experience some discomfort associated with the surgery performed and soreness in the throat. Effects of the anesthesia should resolve within 24 hours.

Children may experience dizziness. Crying in children is a normal response due to the drowsy feeling of the medications, unfamiliar surroundings and new dental work performed. Children recover from anesthesia relatively quickly and start to feel better after they have had something to eat and drink.

The side effects of anesthesia can vary from person to person. Typically, the side effects of anesthesia are mild and can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, chills and confusion.

Every patient will have their unique medical history reviewed by Dr. Kevork. Some medications require special consideration and may warrant a phone call with your prescribing physician. You will be instructed to either take or withhold some or all of your medications. Clear instructions will be given after a phone consultation. Please note that you may take your morning medications with a small sip of water ONLY if instructed to do so.