Preparing for Your Surgery: What to Wear and What to Leave
When preparing for surgery, your mind is likely focused on the procedure itself, but your attire plays a significant role in your safety and comfort. From the moment you arrive until you are discharged, the clothing you choose—and the items you avoid—can make a big difference. This guide breaks down the essential details, providing practical advice for your pre- and post-operative wardrobe.
The Hospital Gown: Your Attire for the Operating Room
Once you arrive at the hospital or surgery center, you will be asked to change into a standard-issue hospital gown. This is a crucial safety measure for several reasons. The gown ensures easy access for the medical team to the surgical site and allows for clear monitoring of your vital signs. These gowns are sterile and designed to be easily removed or adjusted, making them the safest and most practical option for the operating room. Don't worry about what to wear during the actual procedure; the medical staff will take care of it.
What to Wear on the Day of Your Surgery
The clothing you arrive and depart in should prioritize ease and comfort. Your movements may be limited and you might feel groggy or sore immediately after the procedure. Here are some recommendations for your ideal day-of attire:
- Button-down shirts or zip-up hoodies: After certain surgeries, especially those involving the arm or shoulder, pulling a shirt over your head can be difficult and painful. Opting for a top with a front closure eliminates this issue entirely.
- Loose-fitting pants or sweatpants: A loose waistband is key, particularly if you are having abdominal, hip, or leg surgery. Tight clothing can press against incision sites, causing discomfort and irritation. Sweatpants or pajama pants with an elastic waist are ideal.
- Slip-on shoes: Bending over to tie or buckle shoes might be a challenge after surgery. Loafers, sandals, or slip-on sneakers are far more practical and will make getting ready to go home much easier.
- Warm, non-slip socks: Hospital rooms can be cold. Bringing a pair of warm socks is a great idea. Non-slip socks, which are often provided by the hospital, are essential for safety when walking on hard floors.
Items to Avoid on Surgery Day
Equally important is knowing what to leave at home. For your safety, the hospital will require you to remove certain items before the procedure. Following these guidelines helps prevent complications and allows the medical team to perform their duties effectively.
Checklist of what to leave at home
- Jewelry: All jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and body piercings, must be removed. Metal can interfere with surgical equipment and carry bacteria. Additionally, there is a risk of items being lost or damaged.
- Makeup and skin products: Avoid wearing makeup, lotion, or perfume. These products can harbor germs and may interfere with monitoring equipment or have adverse reactions with surgical preparation solutions.
- Nail polish and acrylic nails: The pulse oximeter, a device used to monitor your oxygen levels, is typically placed on your fingertip. Nail polish and artificial nails can block or distort the sensor's reading, so it is a safety precaution to remove them.
- Contact lenses: Anesthesia can cause dry eyes, and it is safest to remove your contacts beforehand. Bring your glasses and a case for them, but be prepared to hand them over to a family member or nurse before the procedure.
- Valuables: Leave cash, credit cards, and other valuables at home. Hospitals cannot be held responsible for lost or stolen items.
Comparison of Pre-Op and Post-Op Considerations
| Feature | Pre-Surgery Attire | Post-Surgery Attire |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Easy removal and patient comfort | Ease of dressing and accommodating surgical dressings |
| Tops | Button-down shirt, zip-up hoodie | Button-down shirt, zip-up hoodie |
| Bottoms | Loose sweatpants, joggers | Loose sweatpants, joggers, shorts (for leg surgery) |
| Shoes | Slip-on sneakers or sandals | Slip-on sneakers or sandals |
| Jewelry | Remove all items | Put items back on after recovery, if desired |
| Accessories | No makeup, nail polish, contacts | Can resume use after discharge and recovery |
Preparing for Your Ride Home
After a procedure involving anesthesia, you will not be allowed to drive. You will need a trusted friend or family member to pick you up. Ensuring your post-op attire is ready and easily accessible will make this transition smoother. In addition to comfortable clothes, consider packing a small bag with a few essentials, like a phone, charger, and any discharge instructions from your care team. Some people also find bringing a pillow helpful for the car ride home, especially after abdominal or chest surgery, to place between their body and the seatbelt for comfort.
For more detailed advice on pre-operative checklists, consult trusted medical resources like the Cleveland Clinic's surgery guides.
The Role of Your Personal Items
While your focus will be on the main clothing items, don't overlook smaller personal accessories. If you have long hair, bring a simple elastic hair tie. Hair clips, bobby pins, and anything else with metal should be avoided. These simple preparations contribute significantly to a worry-free experience, allowing you to focus on your health. By dressing for both the hospital stay and the recovery ahead, you empower yourself with a greater sense of preparedness and control during a potentially stressful time.
