Is it possible to take medication to calm your nerves before surgery?

Question

I'm the very nervous type of person and I'm afraid when the surgery day comes I will have an anxiety attack, and possibly back out of surgery. Is it frowned upon to take medication to calm your nerves before surgery ?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hi there, Thank you for your question. Many patients have a nervous feeling before they have surgery. Yes, it is ok to take something before your surgery to help you to relax. Speak with your surgeon to see what your options are. Best, realdrsix

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Anxiety before surgery is fairly common. ensuring that you know what to expect, that you have a good plan for comfortable recovery and that all of your questions are answered is the best way to reduce nervousness. Some of my patients take an anti-anxiety medication before surgery. I recommend that you discuss your concerns and your options with your Plastic Surgeon directly.All the best

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Select a board certified surgeon with a board certified anesthesiologist on staff who are dedicated to patient safety.  Various patients experience different levels of anxiety prior to surgery.  I, and my staff, provide awareness of the types of reactions, pain level, healing time, etc. that patients are likely to experience before, during, and after surgery.  Each of my staff members applies knowledge gained through their own surgical procedures to share first-hand experiences with patients.  Better informed patients tend to be less anxious.  Music of their choice played in the patient waiting room, OR, and recovery room, along with the trickling water in fountains, lead to calmer surroundings. Medication can be administered if you so desire.Kenneth B. Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

It is normal for people to be very nervous before their operations, and that they manifest high blood pressure and anxiety attacks. Taking medication that reduces your anxiety may pose complications with your surgery. The best way to get rid of anxiety before your operation is the positive outlook in the surgery and assuring your self that you have done the right choice. Also you can drink water every now and then before the operation to sooth your nerves.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Anxiety prior to surgery is very normal; its complete elimination is usually not possible. Assuming you have chosen your plastic surgeon carefully, other important "variables" such as anesthesia provider and surgery facility will be selected based on everyone's first priority: safety. This careful selection should give you some peace of mind that you will be safe around the time of surgery. Discuss your specific areas of concerns with your plastic surgeon who will be in the best position to help you calm your nerves.

I ask my patients to try to be as calm as possible prior to surgery; this “calmness" tends to translate to a smoother postoperative course. You may be able to alleviate some pre operative anxiety with music, exercise, meditation, a glass of wine (if ok with your surgeon) and positive/objective focus on the long term outcome/benefits etc. prior to your procedure.
Generally, patients find that they did “get worked up for nothing” after their recovery is completed.
I hope this helps.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

It is normal to be nervous.Often doctors will prescribe some Xanax or Valium to be taken before surgery to relax the patient.Talk to your doctor.

Is it possible to take medication to calm your nerves before surgery?

Answers (6)

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