Preparing for Surgery
Even with a routine procedure, preparation makes for a better experience. Here's what to expect in the days and hours leading up to your surgery.
A Few Days Before Your Procedure
If time allows, we recommend preparing a few essentials before your surgery day. Stock up on soft foods, pick up any prescribed medications, and set up a comfortable place to rest when you return home. A little planning now can make the first day of recovery much easier.
If you were prescribed medication for anxiety, you will typically take the first dose the night before your procedure. Please follow the instructions on your prescription label exactly. If you need any medications called in ahead of time, let our team know.
The Morning of Surgery
If your procedure involves sedation or general anesthesia, do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before your appointment. Small sips of water are okay when taking approved medications, up until 2 hours before surgery.
If Dr. Miller advised you to pause any medications or supplements before surgery, please follow those instructions. If you are unsure, call us before your appointment so we can clarify.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Short sleeves and long pants are ideal. If you wear contact lenses, please leave them at home and wear glasses instead. We also ask that you avoid heavy perfume or cologne.
If your procedure is scheduled with local anesthesia only, you can eat and drink normally unless we have told you otherwise. Of course, comfortable clothing is still a good idea. If you are not sure which instructions apply to your visit, please call us before your appointment.
Arriving at the Office
We are located at 548 50th Avenue in Long Island City, directly across from the 108th NYPD Precinct. The closest subway station is the (7) stop at Vernon Boulevard–Jackson Avenue, just 150 feet from our front door.
Free street parking is available nearby, though it can be limited. There is a parking lot next door to us at the corner of Vernon Blvd. & 50th Avenue, as well as a garage one block west at 226 50th Avenue, between 2nd Street and 5th Street.
For sedation and general anesthesia appointments, an adult companion is required to accompany you home after your procedure (for your safety, we cannot discharge you alone or release you directly to a rideshare driver). Your companion is welcome to wait in our reception lounge, where we offer complimentary beverages, snacks, and WiFi. If they prefer to step out, the LIC waterfront and several local cafes are just a few steps away.
For local anesthesia appointments, a companion is not required. That said, if having someone with you helps you feel more at ease, they are absolutely welcome. We'll simply ask them to wait in the reception area during your procedure.
For most visits, plan to set aside 1-2 hours total. This includes check-in, the procedure itself, and any recovery time needed before you are cleared to leave.
After Your Visit
Before you leave, we'll go over everything you need to know about your recovery and send you home with a care package to help you through the first few days. You can also review our post-operative instructions ahead of time (see below).
After your procedure, Dr. Miller personally follows up to check on your recovery. You will also have his personal cell number available to you. If something feels concerning, or if you simply have a question, you can reach out directly.
For most procedures, we like to schedule a follow-up visit within a week of your surgery. This gives us a chance to check on your healing, address any questions, and make sure your recovery is on track.
