What Questions Should You Ask at Your Hernia Removal Consultation?

One of the most important aspects of any type of surgery, whether it be cosmetic surgery or a medically necessary procedure, is to schedule a consultation and ask as many questions as you need to feel confident and comfortable with your decision (of doctor and procedure). And this means asking questions about both the surgeon and the surgery itself. While a consultation is a chance for the doctor to examine you and your condition, it can also be an opportunity for you to determine whether or not you are ready for this specific surgery as well as if you’d like to continue moving forward with this particular doctor. We’ve put together some questions that will help get you started during your hernia repair consultation.

What Are Your Qualifications & Credentials?

It is very important that you do your research on your surgeon before undergoing any procedure. Reading reviews, seeing before and after photos, and finding out if your surgeon is board certified are just a few things you can research that can help you determine if a particular doctor or practice is right for you. During your consultation, you can ask these questions and have the physician go into detail about their knowledge, experience, and process of how they treat their patients before, during, and after surgery. Additionally, you can ask to see before and after photos as well as previous patient testimonies.

What Is Your Process?

Learning about how the surgeon performs certain surgeries is an excellent way to find out if you want to continue on with a particular doctor. If they prefer older methods or techniques and you would prefer something less invasive and/or more technologically advanced, then it is better to find out at your consultation rather than right before (or even after!!!) your surgery. Making sure you are undergoing the procedure you want in the method you want will only make you feel more comfortable with your chosen physician. Ultimately, it is so important that you both are on the same page about the surgery and its process.

What Are the Risks and Benefits of Hernia Repair Surgery?

A consultation is excellent to find out if hernia repair surgery is actually needed—especially at this time. Your physician will be able to examine your body and hear your concerns along with determining if hernia repair surgery is medically necessary for you right now. You can ask what the risks of surgery are and what the benefits you can expect (both in waiting and following through with surgery right now).

What Results Can I Expect?

Asking about end results or what you can expect for your life after hernia repair surgery will give you a glimpse into your recovery and how you may feel after surgery. Finding out if your surgeon has pre- and post-op instructions or guidelines can help to ensure that you have the best surgery and recovery possible.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Go to your consultation with as many questions as you can think of since they will only help you in the long run.

For more information about hernia removal surgery, please contact Patrick Moore MD, FACS by calling 951-477-5700.