Preparing for Surgery in Grand Rapids, Michigan

If you are preparing for surgery in Grand Rapids, there are many steps you can take to feel ready and support a smoother recovery. Whether your procedure is at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health, understanding the process can reduce stress and help you get the best outcome.

This guide walks you through key stages of a typical surgical journey in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

Is Surgery Right for You?

Surgery is not the best option for everyone. In Michigan, you have the legal and ethical right to make your own decisions about your healthcare, with guidance from your medical team.

Talk With Your Healthcare Team

Once you learn that you may need surgery:

  • Schedule time to talk with your surgeon, primary care provider, or specialist.
  • Ask them to explain:
    • Your diagnosis
    • All available treatment options (surgical and non-surgical)
    • The benefits and risks of each option
    • What happens if you choose to wait or not have surgery

You can receive care from many providers in the Grand Rapids area, including:

  • Spectrum Health and Trinity Health Grand Rapids for major surgeries and specialty care
  • Metro Health and Mercy Health for a wide range of surgical services
  • Your local primary care or family medicine clinic for pre-surgery planning

Take notes, bring a family member or friend if possible, and ask for written information to review at home.

Considering a Second Opinion

If you are unsure about having surgery, you have the right to seek a second opinion from another healthcare professional, even within the same health system. Many patients in Grand Rapids choose to:

  • Ask for a referral to another surgeon in a different hospital network
  • Contact the Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for help finding additional resources or specialists

Getting Ready in the Weeks and Months Before Surgery

Preparing your body and mind before surgery can improve your recovery, especially given Michigan’s seasonal changes and winter-related health challenges.

Manage Existing Health Conditions

In the months before your surgery:

  • Book an appointment with your primary care provider or GP to:
    • Review chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, or COPD
    • Update your medication list
    • Discuss smoking, vaping, or alcohol use
  • Ask if you need:
    • Blood work or imaging
    • Vaccines (such as flu or pneumonia, especially important in Michigan’s cold and flu season)

Stay Active and Eat Well

Being as healthy as possible before surgery helps you heal faster:

  • Stay active:
    • Aim for regular walking, light exercise, or physical therapy (as advised by your doctor)
    • If winter weather or icy sidewalks make it hard to get outside in Grand Rapids, consider:
      • Indoor walking at malls or community centers
      • Home exercise videos or stationary bikes
  • Eat a balanced diet:
    • Focus on lean protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and adequate fluids
    • Ask your provider if you need to see a dietitian, especially if you have weight, kidney, or heart issues

Extra Planning for Older Adults or Those Needing Help

You may need extra preparation if you are:

  • Over 65 years old
  • Not very active
  • Needing help with daily tasks
  • Losing your balance easily or have had previous falls

Ask your provider about:

  • Pre-surgery physical therapy or “prehab”
  • A fall-risk assessment
  • Home safety checks (rugs, stairs, bathroom grab bars)

If you decide to move forward with surgery, you will be asked to give informed consent.

Informed consent means:

  • You understand your medical condition
  • You understand the recommended surgery or procedure
  • You know the benefits, risks, and alternatives
  • You agree to the treatment voluntarily

You will usually sign a consent form at your surgeon’s office or at the hospital (for example, at Spectrum Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids).

Your Doctor’s Responsibilities

Before you sign, it is your doctor’s responsibility to:

  • Explain your condition in clear, everyday language
  • Describe:
    • Why surgery is recommended
    • What will be done during the procedure
    • The possible benefits
    • The possible risks and complications
    • Other treatment options, including doing nothing
  • Give you time to think and ask questions

Your Responsibilities

You play an active role in this process. It is your responsibility to:

  • Make sure you understand the information
  • Ask as many questions as you need, such as:
    • What are the main risks of this surgery?
    • How long will recovery take?
    • Will I need help at home in Grand Rapids after surgery?
    • When can I drive again, especially in winter weather?
  • Ask for written materials or diagrams if that helps you understand

You can refuse or withdraw your consent at any time before the surgery begins.

After You Receive Your Surgery Date

Once you have a confirmed surgery date at a Grand Rapids hospital or surgery center, there are important steps to take, especially in the week leading up to your procedure.

Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions Carefully

Your surgical team will give you specific instructions. These may include:

  • Medications:
    • When to stop blood thinners, certain diabetes medications, or herbal supplements
    • Which medications you should still take on the day of surgery
  • Fasting (not eating or drinking):
    • When to stop eating solid food
    • When to stop drinking clear liquids
    • Special instructions if you have diabetes or other conditions
  • Hygiene:
    • Showering with special antiseptic soap the night before or morning of surgery
    • Avoiding lotions, perfumes, makeup, or nail polish

If you are unsure about any instructions, call your surgeon’s office or the hospital pre-admission department. Clear communication can help avoid delays or cancellations.

Common Reasons Surgery May Be Delayed or Cancelled

In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, surgeries are sometimes cancelled or rescheduled. Common reasons include:

  • Medications not stopped at the right time
  • Fasting incorrectly (eating or drinking after the cut-off time)
  • New illness, such as:
    • Fever
    • Cough or cold
    • COVID-19 symptoms or positive test
  • Changes in your health, like chest pain or trouble breathing
  • Severe weather or travel issues, especially during West Michigan snowstorms, making it unsafe to get to the hospital

If your circumstances change, contact your surgical team as soon as possible. They can advise whether your surgery should proceed or be postponed.

The Day of Your Surgery in Grand Rapids

It is very common to feel nervous or anxious on the day of surgery. Hospital teams in Grand Rapids are experienced in helping patients feel as comfortable and informed as possible.

What to Expect

While each hospital has its own process, you can usually expect:

  1. Check-in and registration at the surgical center or hospital
  2. Pre-op area:
    • Nurses check your vital signs
    • Review your medications, allergies, and medical history
    • Confirm that you have followed fasting and medication instructions
  3. Meeting your care team:
    • Surgeon
    • Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
    • Nursing staff
  4. Last chance for questions:
    • You can still ask questions and discuss any last-minute concerns
    • Your team will confirm your consent before proceeding
  5. Going to the operating room:
    • You will be given anesthesia so you are comfortable during the procedure

Throughout the day, you will have opportunities to ask questions and get clarification. Do not hesitate to speak up if something is unclear.

After Surgery: Recovery in the Hospital and at Home

Your recovery begins as soon as your surgery is finished.

In the Recovery Area and Hospital

Right after surgery:

  • You will be taken to a recovery room where nurses monitor:
    • Your breathing and heart rate
    • Your pain level
    • Your incision (surgical site)
  • Depending on the type of surgery:
    • You may go home the same day (outpatient surgery)
    • You may stay overnight or longer in the hospital

Your care team will:

  • Help manage your pain
  • Encourage early movement when safe (such as sitting up or walking)
  • Teach you breathing exercises to help prevent lung problems, which can be especially important during Michigan’s cold and flu season

Going Home After Surgery

You will receive discharge instructions that may include:

  • How to care for your incision
  • Which medications to take, and which to avoid
  • Activity limits (lifting, driving, work, school)
  • Signs of infection or complications and when to call your doctor
  • Follow-up appointment dates

Plan ahead for:

  • A responsible adult to drive you home (especially important in winter weather or after anesthesia)
  • Help with daily tasks such as shopping, cooking, or snow removal during your early recovery
  • Access to local resources if needed, such as:
    • Home health services through Grand Rapids healthcare systems
    • Community support programs listed by the Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health

Key Points to Remember

  • If you choose to have surgery, you will be asked to give informed consent.
  • Informed consent means you understand your condition, the proposed treatment, its risks and benefits, and your alternatives.
  • It is your responsibility to make sure you understand the risks by asking as many questions as you need.
  • Common reasons for surgery cancellation include not stopping certain medications, fasting incorrectly, new illness, or changes in your health.
  • It is normal to feel nervous on the day of surgery. Your Grand Rapids surgical team is there to answer questions and support you at every step.

By taking an active role in your care, working closely with your Grand Rapids healthcare providers, and preparing ahead—especially for Michigan’s seasonal challenges—you can help ensure a safer surgery and a smoother recovery.