What will the surgical setting look like?

In the past, surgery may have meant a lengthy hospital stay to recover. With today's advances, people now have several choices, depending on the diagnosis and type of surgery needed.

Inpatient surgery

Some of the more intensive surgeries still need you to stay overnight or longer in a hospital. This is so clinical staff can monitor your recovery. You can get immediate medical attention in case of problems.

Outpatient surgery

Because of advances in surgical procedures and anesthesia, many surgeries done today let you recover and go home on the same day. Outpatient surgery, when appropriate, reduces costs, reduces stress, and speeds up the recovery process. It also reduces the time lost from work and family life. Outpatient surgery may also be called same-day surgery, in-and-out surgery, and ambulatory surgery. And, outpatient surgery is often done in what are called specialty surgical centers:

• Ambulatory surgery. Ambulatory surgery is done without admitting you to the hospital. The surgery may be done in the outpatient section of the hospital, in an outpatient surgical center, or in a healthcare provider's office.

• Specialty surgery centers. Certain medical specialties, such as ophthalmology, may be located in their own office settings, away from the hospital. These specialty centers offer comprehensive care, including outpatient surgery. Most outpatient centers are affiliated with hospitals, where you can be admitted if needed after surgery.