Pre-Surgery Prep for Foot and Ankle Procedures — What to Expect

Pre-Surgery Prep for Foot and Ankle Procedures — What to Expect

Getting Ready for Your Procedure

Scheduled for foot or ankle surgery? The weeks leading up to your procedure are crucial. Proper pre-surgery preparation can significantly improve your surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and speed your recovery. At Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute, we've helped hundreds of patients prepare for procedures across our Lake Mary (Waymont and MedPlex) and Downtown Orlando / SODO locations. People also drive in from Sanford, Altamonte, and Longwood — we do not have offices in those towns. Here's what you need to know and do to get ready.

Step 1: Schedule Your Pre-Operative Consultation (2-4 Weeks Before Surgery)

Your first major preparation step is meeting with your surgeon for a comprehensive pre-op visit.

What to Bring:

• Photo ID and insurance card
• List of all current medications (including supplements and over-the-counter drugs)
• Blood pressure log if you monitor at home
• Records from your primary care physician
• Any recent lab results or imaging studies

What We'll Discuss:

• Your surgical procedure and expected outcomes
• Anesthesia options appropriate for you
• Realistic recovery timeline
• Pre-operative testing requirements
• Medication adjustments before surgery
• Any health concerns specific to your situation

Step 2: Complete Required Medical Tests (1-3 Weeks Before)

Depending on your age, overall health, and the complexity of your surgery, you may need:

Basic Tests (often required):

• Blood work (CBC, metabolic panel)
• Urinalysis
• Baseline EKG if you're over 40 or have cardiac history

Additional Tests (as needed):

• Chest X-ray
• Stress test if you have significant heart disease
• Clearance from your primary care doctor or cardiologist

Checklist:

• [ ] Schedule all required tests with your primary care physician
• [ ] Complete tests at least 1-2 weeks before surgery (allows time for results)
• [ ] Provide results to your surgeon's office
• [ ] Confirm receipt by calling to verify all reports are on file

Step 3: Adjust Your Medications (1-2 Weeks Before)

Certain medications need to be stopped or modified before surgery. Do NOT make changes without your surgeon's guidance.

Medications Typically Stopped (follow your surgeon's timeline):

• Blood thinners (warfarin, clopidogrel, apixaban)—stop 3-7 days before
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen—stop 5-7 days before
• Some herbal supplements (ginger, ginseng, garlic)
• Aspirin (unless your cardiologist says to continue)

Medications Usually Continued:

• Blood pressure medications (unless specifically told otherwise)
• Diabetes medications (adjust timing as directed)
• Thyroid medications
• Seizure medications

Critical Reminder:

• Write down all changes your surgeon specifies
• Confirm timing with your surgeon's office in writing
• Bring your medication list to pre-op

Step 4: Arrange Your Life for Recovery (2 Weeks Before)

Foot and ankle surgery means limited mobility for weeks. Plan ahead:

Home Setup:

• [ ] Stock your fridge and freezer with easy meals
• [ ] Arrange your bedroom on the main floor if possible
• [ ] Place frequently used items at arm's reach
• [ ] Install grab bars if needed
• [ ] Remove tripping hazards and clutter
• [ ] Arrange comfortable seating with foot elevation

Support System:

• [ ] Line up someone for surgery day (you cannot drive under anesthesia)
• [ ] Arrange help for household tasks for 1-2 weeks minimum
• [ ] Plan childcare if needed
• [ ] Notify your employer of time needed off
• [ ] Arrange pet care for the first week

Mobility Aids:

• [ ] Rent or purchase crutches (try them before surgery)
• [ ] Consider a knee scooter if appropriate for your procedure
• [ ] Get a walker or cane if recommended
• [ ] Ensure adequate pain management supplies

Step 5: Optimize Your Health (1-2 Weeks Before)

Small steps can dramatically improve your surgical outcome.

Nutrition:

• Eat protein-rich foods to support healing
• Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water)
• Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol
• Limit salt to help manage swelling post-surgery The MedlinePlus foot-leg-ankle swelling page lists surgery on the foot or ankle as a common trigger for that fluid buildup, and a lower-salt plan is one of the simple steps it recommends to keep edema down.

Physical Preparation:

• Maintain gentle mobility and stretching as tolerated
• Avoid activities that aggravate your foot condition
• Walk normally as much as your foot allows
• Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours nightly)

Skin Care:

• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Trim toenails straight across
• Avoid lotions that can interfere with surgical site prep
• Do not shave your surgical foot (clipping creates tiny cuts)

Mental Preparation:

• Review pre-op materials and ask questions
• Discuss pain management expectations with your surgeon
• Consider ways to stay engaged during recovery
• Plan entertainment for recovery weeks (audiobooks, streaming, puzzles)

Step 6: Pre-Operative Fasting (Day Before Surgery)

Following fasting instructions is critical for your safety under anesthesia.

Typical Fasting Schedule:

• Solid Food: Nothing after midnight the night before surgery
• Clear Liquids: No liquids after 2 hours before surgery (follow your specific instructions)
• Medications: Take only essential medications with small sip of water unless told otherwise

Important Notes:

• Your surgeon's office will provide specific fasting instructions
• Call immediately if you accidentally eat or drink
• Bring these instructions to surgery with you

Step 7: Surgery Day Preparation (Day of Surgery)

Morning Timeline:

• [ ] Shower or bathe, but do NOT apply lotions, perfumes, or makeup
• [ ] Wear clean, comfortable, loose-fitting clothes
• [ ] Leave valuables and jewelry at home
• [ ] Wear comfortable shoes on your non-surgical foot
• [ ] Arrive 30-60 minutes early as instructed

What to Bring:

• Photo ID and insurance card
• List of medications and any allergies
• Pre-operative instructions and confirmation
• Phone charger
• Comfortable, warm clothes for going home
• Someone to drive you home

Mental Checklist:

• [ ] Have someone with you for check-in
• [ ] Review your consent form
• [ ] Verify all pre-op testing is complete
• [ ] Confirm your surgeon's name and procedure location
• [ ] Ask any last-minute questions

Key Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

Before surgery, make sure you understand:

1. What exactly will be done during my procedure?
2. What are the realistic expectations for outcomes?
3. What complications should I watch for after surgery?
4. When can I resume specific activities (driving, walking, exercise)?
5. What pain management options will be available?
6. When will I have my first post-operative visit?
7. How long until I'm fully recovered?
8. What should I do if I have questions or concerns after going home?

You're Ready

Following these preparation steps puts you in the best position for a smooth surgery and successful recovery. At Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute, our team is committed to making your surgical experience as comfortable and successful as possible.

Questions about preparing for your foot or ankle surgery? Call (407) 307-0006 or book at https://floridafai.intakeq.com/booking. We're here to guide you through every step.

Quick Reference Checklist

• [ ] Pre-operative consultation scheduled
• [ ] All medical tests completed
• [ ] Medication adjustments confirmed
• [ ] Home recovery setup complete
• [ ] Support system arranged
• [ ] Mobility aids obtained
• [ ] Pre-operative instructions received and reviewed
• [ ] Fasting plan understood
• [ ] Surgery day logistics confirmed
• [ ] Questions documented and answered

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