Pre-Surgery Physicals

Table of Contents

• What is a Pre-Surgery Physical?

• Who Needs a Surgical Clearance Exam?

• What Does a Pre-Op Physical Include?

• What Tests Are Ordered Before Surgery?

• How Do I Prepare for My Pre-Op Appointment?

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What is a Pre-Surgery Physical?

A pre-surgery physical — also called a pre-operative physical, pre-op exam, or surgical clearance — is a medical evaluation required by most hospitals, surgical centers, and surgeons before a scheduled operation. Its purpose is to assess your overall health, identify any conditions that could increase your surgical risk, and confirm that you are medically fit to proceed with surgery and anesthesia.

At GoodLife Medical Center, we approach your pre-op physical the same way we approach all of our patient care: with personal attention, thoroughness, and genuine concern for your well-being. Our physicians will review your complete medical history, conduct a physical examination, order any required lab work or diagnostic testing, and communicate your results directly to your surgical team — so everything is in order before your procedure date arrives.

 

Who Needs a Surgical Clearance Exam?

A pre-surgery physical is required for a wide range of surgical procedures. If you have been scheduled for any of the following, your surgeon's office will likely request a medical clearance from your primary care physician:

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• Orthopedic surgery — joint replacements, knee surgery, hip surgery, rotator cuff repair

• Abdominal & gastrointestinal surgery — hernia repair, gallbladder removal, appendectomy, colon surgery

• Cardiac & vascular surgery — bypass surgery, valve repair, vascular procedures

• Gynecological surgery — hysterectomy, fibroid removal, laparoscopic procedures

• Urological surgery — prostate procedures, kidney surgery, bladder surgery

• ENT surgery — tonsillectomy, sinus surgery, ear procedures

• Bariatric surgery — weight loss and metabolic surgery

• Cosmetic & plastic surgery — liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty, body contouring

• Spine & neurosurgery — spinal fusion, disc surgery, decompression procedures

• General outpatient surgery — any same-day or ambulatory surgical procedure requiring anesthesia

 

Regardless of the type of surgery you're having, a pre-op evaluation from a trusted primary care physician is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and ensure a smooth surgical experience.

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What Does a Pre-Op Physical Include?

Your pre-surgery physical at GoodLife Medical Center is a comprehensive evaluation tailored to your health history and the specific requirements of your surgeon or surgical facility. Every pre-op exam includes:

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Complete Medical History Review: We'll review your past surgeries, current medical conditions, family health history, allergies, and any history of complications with anesthesia — giving your surgical team a complete picture of your health before they operate.

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Physical Examination: A thorough head-to-toe physical assessment, including evaluation of your cardiovascular system, respiratory function, vital signs, and overall physical condition.

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Medication & Supplement Review: We'll carefully review all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking. Certain medications — including blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, and some supplements — may need to be paused before surgery, and we'll guide you through what to stop and when.

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Lab Work & Diagnostic Testing: Depending on your age, health status, and surgeon's requirements, we'll order the appropriate pre-operative labs and tests (see below).

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Surgical Clearance Documentation: Once your evaluation is complete and results are reviewed, we'll provide your surgeon's office with official medical clearance documentation, communicating any relevant findings and confirming your fitness for surgery.

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What Tests Are Ordered Before Surgery?

Pre-operative testing is customized based on your individual health profile, your age, and the nature of your surgery. Commonly ordered tests include:

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Blood Tests

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) — checks for anemia, infection, and immune function

• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) — evaluates kidney function, liver function, and electrolytes

• Coagulation / Bleeding Profile (PT/INR, PTT) — assesses your blood's ability to clot safely

• Blood glucose and HbA1c — particularly important for patients managing diabetes

Cardiac Testing

• Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) — typically required for patients over 40 or those with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or cardiac symptoms

Imaging

• Chest X-ray — may be ordered for patients with a history of respiratory conditions, smoking, or certain cardiovascular concerns

Other Testing

• Urinalysis — screens for kidney or urinary issues

• Pregnancy test — required for women of childbearing age before going under anesthesia

• Thyroid panel, lipid panel, or additional labs as clinically indicated

 

Your GoodLife physician will ensure that all required tests are ordered efficiently and that results are communicated to your surgical team well in advance of your procedure date.

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How Do I Prepare for My Pre-Op Appointment?

Preparing for your pre-surgery physical is simple. Coming prepared helps us complete your clearance as quickly and smoothly as possible.

 

Please bring the following:

• A complete list of all current medications, vitamins, and supplements (with dosages)

• Your photo ID and insurance card

• Any pre-op paperwork or forms provided by your surgeon or surgical center

• The name and contact information of your surgeon's office

• A list of known allergies, including medication and anesthesia reactions

 

Before your appointment:

• Be ready to discuss all current health conditions, recent illnesses, and past surgeries

• Let us know about any symptoms you've been experiencing, even if they seem minor

• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood-thinning supplements unless directed otherwise by your physician

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After your appointment:

Once your physical is complete and all results are in, we will send your official surgical clearance directly to your surgeon. If any additional testing, specialist consultation, or follow-up is needed before your surgery can safely proceed, we'll coordinate that process and keep you informed every step of the way.

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Schedule an Appointment Today!

At GoodLife Medical Center, we know that preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to make this part of your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible — with the personal, attentive care that Memphis families have trusted for over 20 years.

Schedule Your Pre-Surgery Physical Today | Call (901) 685-1994

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We serve patients from Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Bartlett, Cordova, Southaven, and surrounding communities in the greater Memphis area.