Each of our physicians has specific preparations that they recommend for your procedure. Please be certain that you follow dietary and preparation instructions provided by your physician. A Liberty Endoscopy Center nurse will contact you in advance of your procedure to complete a pre-procedure questionnaire and answer any of your questions. If you have any additional questions, please contact your treating gastroenterologist directly.
Please be advised that if you are undergoing anesthesia, you MUST have an adult escort to take you home after your procedure.
What to Expect on Your Procedure Day
Upon arriving at Liberty Endoscopy Center, you will be greeted and checked in by one of our staff members. After registration, you will be evaluated by one of our pre-operative nurses and brought to our pre-operative area. Your belongings will be securely stowed and you will be provided with a comfortable gown to change into. Your doctor will evaluate you and be available to answer any questions you may have prior to your procedure. if you are receiving anesthesia, you will also meet with your anesthesiologist to discuss your care. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions so that your concerns are addressed. After your procedure, you will recover in our recovery area. Your exam results will be discussed with you by your doctor and a recovery nurse will prepare you for discharge. Most patients are ready to be discharged approximately two hours after their arrival at the Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please bring your photo ID and insurance card, as well as any essential items. If you take multiple medications, please bring a list of them with you. Avoid bringing jewelry or valuables. Lockers are available to store your clothing and belongings prior to your procedure. Please note that weapons are not permitted in the building.
Wear comfortable clothing that is easily stored and removable. You will be asked to remove and store all removable jewelry prior to your procedure.
Most patients spend an average of 2-3 hours at the Center. Your adult escort does not have to be with you the entire time and you may call your escort once you are in the recovery area to coordinate pick-up.
An adult escort is required if you are receiving sedation for your endoscopic procedure. If you are unable to identify an escort, there are several services available for hire. Please contact the Center, and we will be happy to provide with a list of agencies.
For most gastroenterology procedures, it’s very important to follow your pre-procedure instructions carefully to ensure accurate results and your safety.
In general, solid foods are not allowed for at least 8 hours before your procedure, including grains like quinoa or bulgur. If you are scheduled for a colonoscopy, you will typically need to follow a clear liquid diet for at least 24 hours prior to your exam.
Clear liquids—such as water, tea, black coffee, pulp-free juice, and clear carbonated beverages—are usually allowed up to 4 hours before your procedure. After that, you should have nothing by mouth, including food, drinks, gum, or lozenges, for at least 2 hours before your appointment.
If you take medications the morning of your procedure, you may take them with a small sip of water unless otherwise instructed by your provider.
Always follow the specific instructions given by your physician, as individual guidelines may vary.
In most cases, you can eat and drink normally before a vein procedure, but it’s important to follow any specific instructions provided by your care team.
For minimally invasive vein treatments—such as sclerotherapy or endovenous ablation—patients are typically encouraged to stay well-hydrated and eat a light meal beforehand. This can help prevent lightheadedness and keep you comfortable during treatment. It is also recommended to avoid caffeine on the day of your procedure, as it may increase sensitivity or contribute to dehydration.
However, if your procedure involves sedation, you may be asked to avoid eating for several hours beforehand. In these cases, your provider will give you clear fasting instructions similar to those used for other medical procedures.
You should also take your usual medications unless your provider advises otherwise.
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to check with your provider ahead of time to confirm exactly what’s recommended for your specific procedure.
Please contact us to speak with a nurse or you may discuss with your physician.
Contact lenses must be removed prior to undergoing your gastroenterology or colorectal procedure. Please bring an extra pair of contacts with you or a carrying case if your lenses are not disposable.
Your menstrual cycle will not affect your procedure. If you have additional questions, please contact your physician’s office directly.
In general, breastfeeding is considered to be safe after one is fully recovered from anesthesia. If you are breastfeeding, please discuss with your gastroenterologist prior to your procedure and notify the anesthesiologist on the day of your procedure.
Essential medications may be taken with a few small sips of water on the morning of your procedure. Please review your medication list with your physician in advance of your procedure, particularly if you have diabetes or if you are taking blood thinning medication (aspirin, clopidogrel/Plavix, warfarin/Coumadin etc.). If possible, please bring a list of your current medications with you to Liberty Endoscopy Center on your procedure day.
Insurance coverage is an agreement between yourself and the insurance company that outlines the benefits covered by your insurance provider. Each plan is different. To understand how yours will cover the cost of your procedure you must contact your insurance provider. Our benefit verification specialists are also available to assist you in estimating costs. You can reach them by dialing 646-862-1167 or emailing benefits@libertyendoscopy.com. Note: Quotes provided by Liberty Endoscopy Center are not exact, do not guarantee insurance coverage, and do not include physician or laboratory fees.
PLEASE NOTE: Female, transgender, genderqueer, and non-binary patients under the age of 55 with the capacity for pregnancy will be asked to submit a urine sample for the purposes of pregnancy testing prior to their procedure. This measure is a required risk mitigation strategy that unfortunately does not recognize the spectrum of gender identities and requires anyone with this reproductive potential to submit a sample.
Please contact your physician’s office directly if you have any specific questions or concerns.
