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Is Outpatient Surgery Right for You? Safety Facts & Expert Advice

If your provider recently recommended surgery, you may be surprised to learn you might not need to spend a single night in the hospital.

Today, many procedures are safely and efficiently performed in outpatient settings, also known as ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) or surgical suites. These facilities are designed for modern care—offering advanced technology, personalized support, and a faster return home.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, NC, we support patients by providing expert outpatient care in a setting that prioritizes comfort, privacy, and peace of mind.

Here’s what you should know when deciding whether outpatient surgery might be the right fit for you.

What Is Outpatient Surgery?

Outpatient surgery, also known as same-day surgery, allows patients to:

  • Arrive and return home within hours of the procedure
  • Avoid overnight hospitalization
  • Recover in the comfort of their own home with detailed care instructions

Thanks to advances in minimally invasive techniques, anesthesia, and pain management, even many orthopedic, podiatric, and general surgeries are now performed safely in outpatient settings.

Want to explore the national trend? The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reports that outpatient surgery has become a trusted option for millions each year due to its safety and efficiency.

Who Qualifies for Outpatient Surgery?

Not every procedure or patient is suited for outpatient care, but many are.

You may be a good candidate if:

  • Your procedure doesn’t require overnight monitoring or hospitalization
  • You are generally in good health, with any chronic conditions well-managed
  • Your surgeon believes you can recover safely at home
  • You have a caregiver or family member available to assist you during recovery

At Prime Surgical Suites, all patients are thoroughly evaluated before surgery to ensure outpatient care is the right path. See how our facility is built on patient-focused care.

Is Outpatient Surgery Safe?

Yes, when performed in the right environment by a qualified team.

Your procedure is performed by board-certified surgeons who operate in partnership with your referring physician. We also work with licensed anesthesiologists and a skilled perioperative nursing team to keep you safe and comfortable every step of the way.

Our Granite Falls facility includes:

  • Advanced sterilization protocols to prevent infection
  • Pre- and post-operative nursing care
  • Emergency equipment and trained response teams
  • Clear discharge instructions and coordinated follow-up with your surgeon

We maintain the same high standards of care as hospital operating rooms but in a setting that’s focused entirely on you and your recovery.

For broader safety data, the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association highlights how ASCs deliver high patient satisfaction and excellent outcomes across a range of procedures.

Types of Procedures Commonly Done as Outpatient

Many common surgeries that once required a hospital stay are now safely performed on an outpatient basis. These include:

  • Foot and ankle surgeries, such as bunion correction or fracture repair
  • Hand and wrist procedures, including carpal tunnel release or tendon repair
  • Hernia repairs
  • Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)
  • Arthroscopic joint procedures, including shoulder or knee scopes
  • Other minor general surgical procedures, depending on your surgeon’s scope of practice

See a full list of our supported specialties. All procedures at Prime Surgical Suites are scheduled through your referring provider or surgeon’s office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose outpatient surgery instead of a hospital stay?

Only if your provider determines it’s medically appropriate. Some procedures or medical conditions may still require hospital-based care. Many others, however, can now be done in outpatient settings with excellent results.

What should I expect for recovery?

You’ll receive personalized instructions for wound care, medications, and activity levels before you leave. Most patients are discharged within a few hours and return home the same day. A follow-up appointment with your surgeon is typically scheduled within days of your procedure.

Do I need a referral to be treated at Prime Surgical Suites?

Yes. Prime is not a walk-in clinic or general medical provider. We work directly with referring physicians and surgeons who determine whether surgery is necessary and when it can be safely scheduled in an outpatient environment.

Personalized Surgery, Without the Hospital Hassle

Outpatient surgery is a safe, efficient, and patient-friendly option for many procedures—when delivered in the right facility, by the right team.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, we work with trusted providers across western North Carolina to support your surgical care from start to finish. If your surgeon recommends outpatient surgery, we’re here to provide a seamless experience, from pre-op prep to post-op recovery.

Have questions about scheduling or next steps? Contact your provider for a referral, or learn more about our facility and specialties. We’re here to support your care with excellence and ease.