A GUIDE TO YOUR CONSULTATION
This leaflet explains what to ask and consider at any outpatient consultation.
Preparing your questions in advance helps you get the most from your appointment.
At the heart of my practice is Shared Decision-Making. Whether we pursue conservative management (Plan A) or surgical intervention (Plan B), the goal is to create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and functional goals.
This leaflet provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice.
A Helpful Guide for Your Consultation
Meeting a surgeon and discussing surgery can feel stressful, and it is very common to feel overwhelmed or to forget important questions during the appointment.
Writing your questions down before your consultation can help you:
- Understand your condition better
- Feel more confident about your treatment
- Remember important information discussed in clinic
Your Consultation Checklist
1. Understanding My Condition & Alternatives
- What will happen if I do not have surgery?
- Are there non-surgical treatments that could help?
- What are the benefits and limitations of these alternatives?
2. Surgical Options
- What surgical options are available for my condition?
- Why are you recommending this particular procedure?
- What are the success rates and possible complications?
3. Surgeon & Hospital Experience
- How important is the surgeon's experience for this operation?
- How often do you perform this procedure?
- How frequently is this surgery done at this hospital?
4. Pain & Hospital Stay
- How much pain should I expect after surgery?
- How will my pain be managed?
- How long will I stay in hospital?
5. Care After Surgery
- How do I look after my wound?
- When should the dressing be changed?
- When can I shower or have a bath?
- Will I need physiotherapy, and for how long?
6. Returning to Normal Activities
- When can I return to work, exercise and driving?
- Are there any long-term restrictions I need to follow?
7. Follow-Up & Support
- When will my first follow-up appointment be?
- What will happen at that appointment?
- Who should I contact if I have concerns or complications at home?
8. Financial & Insurance Questions
- What are the expected costs of the surgery?
- Does this include pre- and post-operative care?
- Will my insurance cover the procedure? Any out-of-pocket costs?
- Are payment plans or financial support available?
9. Details About the Operation
- Will the surgery be keyhole (minimally invasive) or open?
- How long will the operation take?
- Is a blood transfusion likely?
- Will I need to stop medications, fast, or make special preparations?
10. Anaesthesia
- What type of anaesthetic will I have (local, regional or general)?
- Are there specific risks related to anaesthesia?
- Will I meet the anaesthetist before surgery?
11. Long-Term Results
- What outcome can I realistically expect?
- How long will the results last?
- Is there a chance I may need further surgery in future?
- Are there lifestyle changes that could improve my outcome?
12. Second Opinions
- Would you recommend a second opinion?
- Can you suggest another specialist or centre if needed?
13. Technology & New Techniques
- Are advanced techniques used (e.g. navigation, robotics)?
- Are these suitable for me?
- Do they improve outcomes or recovery?
14. Risks & Warning Signs
- What are the most common risks of this surgery?
- What symptoms should I watch for afterwards?
- When should I seek urgent medical help?
15. Involving Family or Caregivers
- Will I need help at home after surgery?
- What support will my caregiver need to provide?
- Will they need to assist with transport, wound care or daily activities?
Helpful Tip
Write your questions down and bring them to your appointment — many patients find this helps them feel more prepared and less anxious, and makes sure nothing important is missed.