Surgery is a very big deal. People these days tend to believe it’s not but think about it.
You will be put under and a doctor will make an incision to get the job done. The job getting done may involve cutting through muscle and other soft tissue or placing appliances.
Surgery is a trauma to the body, so it’s important that you educate yourself as much as possible going in, for a successful recovery. Are you contemplating surgery? Stay informed with these 3 tips.
Ask the Right Questions
If you’re at the point of contemplating surgery, it’s important to understand what to expect and to manage your expectations accordingly, so ask questions like the following:
Will my quality of life improve following the surgery?
Will I still experience pain?
How have other patients responded and recovered following this surgery?
These are the big ones and very important to understand, going in. They will determine whether proceeding is the right thing to do.
Even if your questions seem unimportant to you, ask them. You have a right to now. But if your doctor doesn’t answer to your satisfaction, you should be seeking a second opinion to get a better read of the situation.
Second Opinions Matter
It’s often the case that a second opinion can shed more light on your situation.
Find out who the physicians specializing in your condition are, in your area. You should know what the options are with respect to surgery. They may suggest an alternative procedure you’re unaware of or steer you toward a non-invasive therapy that might help you avoid surgery altogether.
It’s your body and your health, so take the time to inform yourself to ensure you’re taking the best possible action.
Google Your Surgeon
No one in this world is to be taken at face value and, thanks to the Google Machine, no one need be, any longer.
Once you’ve decided to proceed with surgery, then it’s important you know who’s operating on you. Everybody wants the best surgeon possible, of course, so ensure that yours has the kind of reputation and standing required.
And Google isn’t your only tool. Face-to-face with your surgeon. Feel free to ask questions about her background and other questions which are important to you. For example:
- How long have you been a practicing surgeon?
- How many times have you performed this procedure?
- Do you try conservative treatments before moving to surgery?
Questions like these give you further insight into the quality of the medical professional you’re talking to. And you need that insight, as surgery really is a big deal. You want the most proficient medical professionals working with you, to ensure your comfort and surgical success.
Knowing you’re in good hands is the foundation of a successful post-surgical recovery. Patients have a right to know about what surgeons are planning and who their surgeons are.
Your comfort level is what leads to confidence in your surgeon and in your recovery.
Spine Consult NJ treats all conditions of the spine. Contact us.