What can I expect during my hospital stay?
How long is the
hospital stay? When will I be discharged? When should I check into the
hospital? Do I need a hotel room?
Hospital stay is typically around 1.5 days (at least 24- 30 hours post
op). You will check into the hospital at least 4 hours prior to
surgery, (or the night before
for a morning surgery). You can stay in the hospital the 2 nights
with no additional charges if
space permits.
A hotel room may
be needed if space does not permit during our busiest season (tax
time). A hotel room is always necessary if you are staying
additional days in the area or you have a flight time that conflicts
with our shuttle schedule. You will be charged for any additional
nights (more than 2) if you are medically required to stay in the hospital.
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Can someone be with me
in the operating room? Can we take videos or pictures during surgery?
Yes,
spouses (only). It
is preferred by the doctors that your spouse be with you during your
reversal surgery. Your husband can take
pictures or video tape your surgery as well. If your spouse is
not able to be in the OR with you, one of our nurses will be able to
take pictures and possibly videotape your surgery for you (using your
camera or camcorder).
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If we fly in, how soon
after their surgery can we fly again? What if I need to leave early? How soon will I heal?
You
will stay in the hospital a minimum of 24 hours post op before being
released; and you must allow 4 hours between hospital release and
flight time.
Please note that most airlines are strict on a doctor's release before they will allow you to board, and if
you appear to be having problems, they may refuse to board you. So
waiting the proper amount of time (28 hours) and obtaining a release
form before you leave the hospital is mandatory.
You can return to
work in 14 days. Depending on your job, you may be able to
return to work in 7 days. Please ask for more details regarding
resuming activities. We will provide you with any paperwork your
employer may require.
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Can we come alone?
Can my husband or a friend stay with us at the hospital the whole
time? Where will they eat?
It is preferable that you do not come alone, but it is possible.
If possible you should try not to travel alone. You can bring
any friend or family member,
at least 13 years old or older. Your spouse is preferable. This is for the
benefit of the patient as well as our staff. It is risky to
travel internationally for major surgery without someone to assist you
and to speak for you when you are not able (under sedation or in the
event of an emergency). You will also need assistance while you
are recovering from the epidural and during your travel home (to
drive, carry luggage, etc). *If
your guest is under 21, you must fly and use the shuttle - you cannot
drive after your surgery. If you cannot find someone to come
with you, you can come alone but you will be required to hire a private nurse during your
stay - and flying / hiring the shuttle is mandatory. Please discuss this with us in
advance.
Meeting with and/or traveling with another patient is not the same
as having someone with you! Each patient will need to have
a family member or friend with them, or pay for private nursing. There are some minor exceptions for couples having surgery, so please email for more details.
If you come
alone or refuse to pay for private nursing, you will be sent home
without surgery.
There are no exceptions.
Yes, you
can have another person stay with you in the hospital room following
surgery. Your guest (one) will be provided with meals during
regular hospital meal times. If you check in after meal time,
there are places to eat near the hospital. Someone from the
staff will be willing to assist your guest with getting food (please
bring extra funds for eating out). No more than two people can
stay in your room though one is preferable since the rooms are only
equipped with one extra sleeping space for your guest.
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What about children, can we bring them?
No. Children
under 13 are not allowed to stay in the hospital. This is hospital
regulation. If your children are coming, there is a hotel down
the street from the hospital that we recommend, if they have an adult
with them. Your guest or spouse will have to stay with
the children, and the patient will have to hire a private nurse.
Please remember that bringing children across the border requires
birth certificates, proof of parent /child relationship and notarized
letters from both legal parents giving permission for the children to
be transported across the border.
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Is there anything special that we need to bring for our hospital stay?
What will we do with our valuables during the surgery?
Travel / Packing Tips
During your surgery a secure place can be provided for you to keep your
money, purses, other valuables that are a necessity to bring - just
ask Dr. Levi or Dr. Diaz when you arrive. BUT! As
with any hospital in any country, we cannot be responsible for items lost,
damaged, or stolen if left in your room or unattended. All unnecessary valuables
(jewelry, electronics, etc) should be left at home. Never leave cash
or valuables in your room, your hotel rooms, or your vehicle at anytime
during your travel; and please be especially careful with your
valuables at airports.
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If you have any questions, please
email!! Thank you!
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