General Surgery

Preparation may vary depending on the procedure, but some common steps include

• Fasting - Avoid food and drink for a specified time before surgery.
• Medication Review - Review all medications with your surgeon, as some may need to be paused.
• Preoperative Tests - These may include blood tests, imaging, and ECGs to ensure you’re fit for surgery.
• Personal Arrangements - Arrange for transportation, post-surgical care, and time off from work or other responsibilities.

Common procedures include

• Appendectomy (removal of the appendix)
• Cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder)
• Hernia repair
• Colorectal surgery (e.g., for cancer or diverticulitis)
• Thyroidectomy (removal of part or all of the thyroid gland)
• Mastectomy and lumpectomy for breast cancer
• Bowel resection
• Biopsies

Every surgery carries some risks, which may include

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Organ damage, depending on the area being operated on Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks of your procedure in detail.

The type of anesthesia depends on the surgery and the patient’s health

• General Anesthesia - Puts the patient to sleep for the entire procedure.
• Regional Anesthesia - Numbs a large part of the body, often used in lower abdominal or leg surgeries.
• Local Anesthesia - Numbs a small, specific area, often used for minor procedures. An anesthesiologist will assess you before surgery to choose the best option.

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. In general

• Minor procedures (e.g., biopsies, hernia repairs) may allow you to go home the same day or within a few days.
• Major procedures (e.g., bowel resection, thyroidectomy) may require a hospital stay and a recovery period ranging from a few weeks to a few months.
• Follow post-operative instructions and attend follow-up visits for a safe and speedy recovery.

It is normal to experience some pain, especially within the first few days after surgery. Pain management options include

• Medications - Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription pain medications as needed.
• Non-medication approaches - Ice packs, rest, and gentle movement, as directed. If pain is severe or worsens over time, contact your healthcare provider.

While complications are uncommon, it’s important to watch for symptoms such as

• Fever or chills
• Excessive bleeding or discharge from the incision
• Redness, warmth, or swelling at the incision site
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Uncontrolled pain
• Nausea or vomiting If any of these occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Resuming activities depends on the type of surgery and individual recovery

• Light activities, such as walking, are encouraged soon after surgery.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities until cleared by your surgeon.
• Return to work depends on the job type and surgical procedure; consult your surgeon for personalized guidance.

Most surgical procedures will result in a scar, though the size and visibility depend on the type of surgery and the location of the incision. Surgeons take care to minimize scarring, and over time, scars typically fade.

Follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely. This may include:

• Keeping the incision area clean and dry
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol, which can impede healing
• Eating a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and proteins
• Resting as needed but also moving around to prevent blood clots

Some conditions can be managed with medication, lifestyle changes, or non-invasive therapies, depending on their severity. Your surgeon will discuss whether surgery is the best option or if alternative treatments are available.