First Visit

Your initial appointment will consist of a consultation explaining your diagnosis and treatment options. Occasionally, surgery can be performed the same day as the consultation. However, a complex medical history or treatment plan may require an evaluation and a second appointment to provide treatment on another day.

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your consultation:

• Your surgical referral slip and any x-rays if applicable.
• A list of medications you are presently taking.
• If you have medical or dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.

IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation visit.

Anesthesia Techniques

A preoperative consultation and physical examination is mandatory for patients undergoing IV anesthesia for surgery. On the day of your surgery, please have nothing to eat or drink eight hours prior. You will also need an adult to drive you home, or accompany you home if you are taking public transportation or a taxi cab.

Some patients prefer to take a mild oral sedative prior to their surgery appointment. Please discuss this technique with Dr. Tom at the time of your consultation. It is a very safe and effective technique.

Laughing Gas (nitrous oxide) is also available in our office. This technique is very common and very helpful for patients who have mild anxiety and it even helps to control gagging. The technique is so safe and effective that children can often undergo procedures using local anesthesia and laughing gas alone. Dr. Tom will be happy to review all the anesthesia options available with you during your consultation visit.

Please alert the doctor if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to anesthesia and surgery (i.e., diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are currently taking any medication (i.e., heart medications, aspirin, “blood thinners”, etc.).

X-Rays