Before your operation, discuss with your surgeon any questions or concerns that you have, such as:
- What are the indications for your surgery? Why is this surgery necessary?
- Are there any alternative treatments available?
- What will be the likely results if you do not have the operation?
- What are the basic procedures involved in the operation?
- Will any other surgeons be assisting your surgeon during your procedure, and what task will they perform?
- What are the risks?
- How is the operation expected to improve your health or quality of life?
- What can be expected during your recovery period?
- When can you expect to resume normal activities?
This operation is being performed for you, and you should seek information necessary to improve your understanding, so do not hesitate to ask questions. No doctor can guarantee outcomes, because each operation is different depending upon your health status, existing disease, and the response of each patient.
You should feel that your questions have been answered before giving permission to do the surgery.