Before surgery you must have an empty stomach. The possibility of complications increases if any food or drink is in your stomach because it can cause vomiting before, during and after the anesthetic.

When to stop eating and drinking:

If your surgery is scheduled between 7:00 AM and noon:

DO: eat a light meal the night before

DO NOT: Eat or drink anything after midnight

Surgery scheduled between noon and 4:00 PM:

DO: Eat a light meal the night before

DO: Drink clear liquids until 6:00 AM the day of surgery

DO NOT: Eat or drink anything after 6:00 AM

Surgery scheduled between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM

DO: Eat a light meal the night before

DO: Drink clear liquids until 10:00 AM the day of surgery

DO NOT: Eat or drink anything after 10:00 AM