While some surgeries are performed because of medical
emergency, many procedures today are elective, which generally means that they
are planned, nonemeregency surgeries. If general surgeons recommend elective
surgery to treat your condition, you need to carefully consider your benefits
and risks to determine if surgery is the best option for you.
1. Finding the Right Surgeon
One thing that will help you optimize your surgery
experience is to make sure you feel comfortable with your physician. Typically,
your family medicine doctor will be able to provide referrals or consult with
you to find a doctor that has the qualifications and experience, as well as the
bedside manner and personality to make sure you are calm and comfortable
throughout every step of the surgery.
2. Know Why The Surgery is Necessary
Another thing to understand fully is the real purpose for
your surgery. Will it relieve your symptoms and cure your medical condition?
Does it have the potential to save your life? Make sure you understand exactly
how the procedure will correct your pain. Ask your doctor to describe in detail
exactly how you will benefit from the surgery.
3. Know the Alternatives
Often, surgery is not the only option for treating a
condition, in fact, usually it is the last resort. Your doctor should recommend
a host of other actions you can take to alleviate your symptoms and ease your
pain, such as diet, exercise, or smoking cessation, that if taken seriously may
remove your need for surgery.
