how to prepare for your wide excision

---

To help ensure a safe and successful procedure, please review ALL of the following instructions carefully:

1. Driving to Your Appointment
   You may drive yourself to your surgery. However, if you've ever felt faint or light-headed during medical procedures or bloodwork, we strongly recommend arranging for a driver.
    
2. Eat Before You Arrive
   Please have a meal or snack at least 60 minutes before your surgery to help maintain stable blood sugar and avoid light-headedness.
    
3. Dress Comfortably
   Wear clean, loose-fitting, washable clothing. If possible, avoid white garments.
    
4. Time Commitment
   Expect to be at Calgary Skin Cancer Centre for 1 to 3 hours on the day of your procedure.
    
5. No Smoking or Tobacco
   Refrain from using tobacco or smoking for at least 1 day prior to your surgery and for 3 days afterward to promote healing and reduce risk of complications.
    
6. Medications & Supplements
   Please review our Medications and Supplements to Avoid page in this section to determine if you need to pause any items before surgery.
    
7. Oxygen Therapy
   If you are on oxygen, bring at least a 4-hour supply with you to the clinic.
    
8. Changes in Health
   If you’ve had any recent changes in your health, including new medications or hospitalization within the past week, please contact us as soon as possible.
    
9. Discharge Protocol
   Do not leave the clinic until you’ve been formally discharged by Dr. Guillemaud, Dr. Michael Sander, Heather Harper, NP, or one of our nurses.
    

Being in your best possible health is key to a safe procedure and optimal healing. Focus on:

• Eating a balanced diet
   
• Getting regular rest and physical activity
   
• Avoiding smoking, as it can significantly affect your surgery and recovery
   

If you smoke, we strongly encourage you to talk with your family doctor about options to help you quit.