Surgery Tips

Every surgery has risks. Only you can decide if the benefits are worth the risks. Surgery Tips If in any doubt, you should always seek a second opinion.

If you want a second opinion, ask your primary physician or surgeon to recommend another specialist and ask that the test results be sent to your doctor.

Last Updated - 31st October 2005

LEARN THE FACTS

What is the name of the surgery?
Get a description of the surgery.
Are there other options besides surgery?
Is this surgery the most common one for this problem?
Are there other types of surgery?

CONSIDER THE RISKS and BENEFITS

How many similar surgeries has the surgeon performed?
How many surgeries like this are done at this hospital?
What is the success rate?
What can go wrong?
How will you feel afterward?
How long is the recovery period?

ASK ABOUT COSTS

How much does the surgery cost?
Is the surgery covered by your medical insurance?
Can the surgery be done on an outpatient basis?

LET YOUR DOCTOR KNOW

Are you willing to put up with symptoms to avoid surgery?
Your concerns about the surgery.
Whether or not you want to have the surgery at this time.
If you want a second opinion.