Outpatient Surgery: What to Expect
Outpatient surgery — also known as same-day or ambulatory surgery — allows patients to undergo many common surgical procedures without an overnight hospital stay. At South Florida Premier Surgery, we understand that preparing for surgery can be stressful, whether it’s your first procedure or if you’ve had previous experiences. To help ease your concerns, here’s what you can expect during and after an outpatient surgery with our experienced surgical team.
Before the Procedure
1. Preoperative Instructions
You'll receive clear instructions from our office before your surgery date. This may include:
Fasting (no food or drink) for several hours before the procedure
Medications to stop or continue
Transportation arrangements (you’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home)
2. Pre-Surgery Check-In
On the day of surgery, you’ll check in at our outpatient facility, Midtown Surgical Center. Our staff will confirm your medical history, take vital signs, and answer any final questions.
3. Anesthesia Consultation
Depending on your procedure, you may receive local, regional, or general anesthesia. Our anesthesiology team will explain what type is best for you and monitor you closely during surgery.
During the Procedure
The length of surgery varies based on the type of procedure, but most outpatient surgeries are completed within a couple of hours. Our surgical team will ensure:
Your comfort and safety throughout the procedure
A sterile and professional environment
Minimal disruption to surrounding tissues for a faster recovery
After the Procedure (Recovery & Discharge)
1. Recovery Room
After surgery, you’ll rest in a recovery area under close observation. Nurses will monitor your vital signs, manage any discomfort, and ensure you're alert and stable before discharge.
2. Discharge Instructions
You’ll receive personalized instructions, including:
Pain management (prescriptions or over-the-counter options)
Wound care
Activity restrictions (such as avoiding heavy lifting or driving)
Signs of complications to watch for (like fever or unusual pain)
3. Going Home
Most patients return home within a few hours after surgery. It’s important to rest, stay hydrated, and follow all postoperative instructions carefully.
Follow-Up Care
You’ll have a scheduled follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check your healing progress and address any concerns. Our team is always available to answer questions or assist with unexpected issues during your recovery.
Your Health, Our Priority
At South Florida Premier Surgery, we’re committed to providing compassionate, high-quality surgical care in a comfortable and convenient outpatient setting. Our goal is to ensure your procedure is as smooth and stress-free as possible — from pre-op to full recovery.
If you have an upcoming surgery or are exploring your options, please contact us with any questions. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.