The length of preparation time differs by patient, procedure, and physician. Some physicians offer a half-day preparation in which you can prepare in the morning and have the procedure completed in the afternoon. The average recovery time is about 45 minutes, depending on the individual patient’s medical condition and specific needs.
Upper Endoscopy
The only preparation for the upper endoscopy typically is that you will have nothing to eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior to the start of the procedure. You will be asked to arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time. After the procedure you will be in recovery for approximately 45 minutes. We generally tell our patients to allow 2 hours for the entire process.
Colonoscopy
The preparation for the colonoscopy usually begins the morning before. Preparation instructions are given to you by your physician’s office. Generally you will have only clear liquids the day before your test. You will be given a strong laxative to clean out your colon. The day of the procedure you will be asked to arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time, and after the procedure you will be in recovery for approximately 45 minutes. We generally tell our patients to allow 2 hours for the entire process.