If your doctor suggests surgery, you may feel a little overwhelmed, or a little scared. But surgery may not be your only option! Here are some things to consider, and some questions to ask.
1. Get a second opinion. Two different doctors may have two different opinions on how to treat your disease or injury.
2. Do some research. Don’t immediately say yes or no to whatever your doctor proposes. Get your diagnosis and find out more. You may decide that surgery is the best choice, or you may decide to pursue another course. Contact your insurance company to see what treatments are covered.
3. Talk to your doctor about the surgery itself. How necessary is it? What are the alternatives? What will happen if you choose to not have the surgery? What kind of timeline does the doctor have for the surgery and recovery? Ask your doctor to describe the procedure exactly, from start to finish. Where will the surgery be performed?
4. Find out about the risks and complications. Discuss your medical history with your doctor, and see if there is anything of concern in regards to surgery. Ask about different methods of performing the surgery — is there a less invasive procedure?
5. Find out what happens afterwards. Can the problem recur? What will recovery be like? What are the success rates for the surgery? What limitations, therapy, or other treatments will be required after the procedure? Will you need a hospital stay, a visit to rehab, or home care?
6. Talk about pain management. Recovering from surgery can be painful, and many people fear pain. Talking about how you and your doctor will deal with the pain can help ease your mind.
7. Talk about any other fears, concerns, and questions you may have.
Unless you are dying in the next day, you don’t have to say yes or no to surgery right away. Take some time to think about everything. Make a list of questions, if that will help. Bring a friend or family member with you to speak with the doctor — they can take notes, or simply serve as a second pair of ears to hear answers.