For Family Members & Companions
Key Reassurances
- Your presence and support genuinely helps reduce patient anxiety
- Plan for 3–5 hours at the clinic
- Help with wound care, meals, and driving in the first 24–48 hours
- Validate their feelings rather than minimizing their experience
- Take care of yourself too. Caregiver wellbeing matters
What to Expect as a Companion
Your loved one is having outpatient surgery under local anesthesia. They will be awake and alert throughout. The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours, though some cases run longer. You may be able to stay with them in the waiting area between stages (check with the clinic).
Practical Tips
- Plan to spend 3–5 hours at the clinic (bring your own reading material or work)
- Your presence provides emotional comfort. Even if you’re just sitting nearby
- Help take notes during discharge instructions. Patients often forget details after a procedure
- Offer to drive them home, especially for facial surgery
- Prepare a comfortable recovery space at home before the appointment
How to Help During Recovery
The first 24–48 hours are when your support matters most:
Practical Tips
- Help with wound care if they’re uncomfortable doing it themselves
- Prepare meals, especially soft foods if the surgery was near the mouth
- Remind them to take acetaminophen before the anesthesia wears off
- Keep the home environment calm and restful
- Help with tasks that require bending or lifting for the first few days
- Be patient with any emotional ups and downs. Post-surgical mood changes are normal
What to Say (and What Not to Say)
Your words matter more than you realize:
| Instead of This | Try This |
|---|---|
| "It’s just a small surgery" | "I’m here for you through this" |
| "You’ll be fine" | "Your surgeon is experienced and I’ll be right here" |
| "At least it’s not a serious cancer" | "It’s understandable to feel worried" |
| "You can barely see the scar" | "The scar will keep improving over the next year" |
| "Stop worrying" | "What can I do to help you feel more comfortable?" |
Taking Care of Yourself
Supporting someone through surgery can be emotionally draining. Make sure you’re also looking after your own needs. It’s OK to feel anxious about your loved one’s procedure. Bring something to keep yourself occupied during the waiting periods, and don’t hesitate to ask the surgical team questions if you have concerns.
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About This Article
Author: Dr. Yehonatan Kaplan, M.D., Fellow ACMS
Last Medical Review:
Audience: Patients
Clinic: Kaplan Clinic · DermUnbound Research Program