I had outpatient surgery at the end of Sept and end of Oct. Nasal reconstruction and shoulder scope. After the nasal surgery, I took a Percocet like drug (Norco) for 3 days with no problem until intense pain set in the third day and I increased the dose (per doctor). I was miserable with mental distress. I stopped it and took ibuprofen instead and did much better. I needed a dose of benzo (Klonopin) to settle the bad day and was fine the next day. I declined the presurgery offer of a benzo.

I don't think the presurgery dose of Xanax is a risk. The pain relief Percocet is a necessary evil. Dosage and duration will be the key issue. Depending on the pain, I'd take some pain rather than the opioid feeling.

I was able to avoid the Norco after the shoulder surgery. Just ibuprofen.