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Frequently Asked Questions — Anaesthesia & Surgery in Singapore
01
What does an anaesthesiologist do before, during and after surgery?
An anaesthesiologist assesses and optimises your health before surgery, delivers and monitors your anaesthesia during the operation, and manages your pain and recovery afterwards. Your anaesthetist stays with you throughout the surgery to monitor your breathing, circulation and depth of anaesthesia.
03
How long do I need to fast before surgery?
You should fast from food for at least 6 hours before surgery. Clear water is usually permitted up to 2 hours before. This may change especially if you are on certain medications that may slow your digestive tract.
Your anaesthetist will confirm exact instructions for your procedure at your pre-operative assessment.
02
What are the different types of anaesthesia?
The main types are general anaesthesia (controlled unconsciousness), regional anaesthesia (numbing a region of the body, such as a spinal, epidural or nerve block), and sedation (a relaxed, drowsy state). These are often combined in a multimodal approach to improve pain control and reduce side effects. See our guide to modes of anaesthesia for details.
04
05
What is a nerve block, and how long does it last?
Which medications should I stop before surgery?
Some medications should be continued and some must be stopped before surgery. Tell your doctors about all your regular medications and supplements at your pre-operative assessment, and you will be given individual instructions on which to continue or withhold.
A nerve block uses local anaesthetic to interrupt pain signals from a specific area. It may be given as a single injection or through a fine catheter that delivers medication continuously after surgery. It is normal to feel numbness and weakness in the affected limb for about 6 to 24 hours.
06
How much does an anaesthetist cost in Singapore?
07
Can I choose my own anaesthetist for private surgery?
For private surgery, your surgeon usually arranges the anaesthetist, but you or your surgeon can request a specific anaesthesiologist or group. You are welcome to contact us to arrange coverage for your procedure.
09
How do surgeons or clinics engage TA Medical Group for anaesthesia coverage?
Private anaesthetist fees depend on the complexity and duration of the procedure and the technique used. The Ministry of Health publishes fee benchmarks for private anaesthetists' fees, which give typical ranges for common procedures. See our anaesthetist fees guide, and ask us for an estimate for your surgery.
08
Can I drive or work after anaesthesia or sedation?
No. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after anaesthesia or sedation. Arrange for someone to take you home after day surgery.
Surgeons, clinics and facilities can contact us directly to arrange anaesthesia coverage. Contact +65 9151 5706 or direct to any of our team anaesthetists, and tell us the procedure, hospital and date so we can confirm availability.