Hi, my daughter was 18 months. I was very concerned, wasn't breastfeeding but very unsettled child. They did her first in the day. However, she was allowed to have milk and water prior to 7.00 am on the day of surgery but no food from midnight. Just confirm with the doctor again, that this isn't the case. PS. Best thing I ever did was get grommets for my daughter!! Also hot tip - use a blow dryer after showers and baths near their ears, drys up any water in the ear, stops bacteria, once grommets are in.