Preparing for cancer surgery & recovery
Find out how to prepare for surgery day and recovery, including what questions to ask your care team.
How do I prepare for cancer surgery?
Surgery may seem like a big step, but if you know about the process and how to prepare for it, you may be more at ease and able to understand what to expect. The time before your cancer surgery is called the pre-operative phase, when you can learn more about how to prepare for surgery and ask your care team questions.
During the pre-operative phase, your cancer care team will go over details about your surgery, such as:
- If you need any tests before surgery
- When and where you’ll have surgery
- What you can or cannot eat and drink before surgery
- Supplies you will need while you recover, such as a walker, shower chair, or bedside toilet
Will I need tests before surgery?
Your cancer care team may need to do additional tests before surgery. These tests give more information to your doctor and may include:
X-rays
X-rays create images of tissues and structures in your body
ECGs
ECGs, or electrocardiograms, show how the heart is beating
Blood tests
Blood tests measure different types of blood cells or other substances in the blood
During this time, it’s OK to ask questions. Getting answers to your questions may help you feel more comfortable about the surgery. Your cancer care team is here to help you understand and prepare.
Cancer surgery checklist
Use these short checklists to help you prepare for cancer surgery and recovery without feeling too overwhelmed.
Preparing for the day of cancer surgery
- Discuss all your treatment options with your doctor, including any treatment before or after surgery
- Ask your doctor what side effects or physical limitations you may have after surgery
- Write down who will be on your surgical team and their contact information
- Ask a friend or loved one to drive you to and from surgery. For help finding transportation, visit our support page
- If possible, visit the hospital before your surgery date so you know where to park and enter
- Pack a small bag of essentials that you may need during your stay, including a list of all your current medicines and dosages to share with the surgical team
- In the days before your surgery, spend time meditating or doing a calm activity to lower your stress
Preparing for recovery
- Ask a friend or loved one to help you at home while you recover. This can include making meals, getting medicines from a pharmacy, paying bills, or cleaning. If you don’t have access to support at home, you may be able to find support near you
- If you live alone, ask a friend or relative to stay with you in the days after surgery
- Plan for how to balance work with your recovery, such as scheduling time off. Navigating expenses while living with cancer isn’t easy. If you need support, there may be financial support options available to you
- Keep notes about your symptoms and questions after surgery to take with you to your follow-up appointment
What should I expect at my follow-up appointment after surgery?
After surgery, your doctor will meet with you to discuss your recovery and next steps. Find out how to prepare for this important visit.
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