Questions to ask before and after surgery

What are the main risks, and what are the numbers for someone my age and health?

General risk lists are less useful than your own. Infection, clots, dislocation, fracture, and leg length difference all carry different odds depending on weight, diabetes, smoking, and previous surgery.

From: Questions to Ask Before Hip Replacement Surgery

How do you work with the anesthetists or residents you supervise?

Team structure varies enormously by country and hospital, and it determines how much of your day is hands-on. A vague answer here often means friction they would rather not describe.

From: Questions to Ask an Anesthesiologist About Their Job

What are the reasons you would decline to operate on someone?

A surgeon who can describe the patients they turn away has criteria. Vague answers, or a sense that everyone who asks proceeds, are worth weighing carefully alongside how the clinic is funded.

From: Questions to Ask a Bariatric Surgeon

What are the restrictions afterwards on driving, screens, exercise, swimming and makeup?

These are the rules people break without meaning to: rubbing the eyes, swimming, dusty work, contact sport, eye makeup. Ask for the list in writing with dates rather than general advice.

From: Questions to Ask About LASIK

What anesthesia or sedation are you proposing, who gives it, and how am I monitored?

Local anesthetic, sedation, and general anesthesia carry different requirements. Ask who administers it and what training they hold, what monitoring is used, whether you need someone to take you home, and how long you should not drive.

From: Questions to Ask About Dental Implants

Will this be a day case or an overnight stay, and what decides that?

Many hip procedures now go home the same day, but that depends on anaesthetic, pain control, and whether someone is with you at night. Plan for the overnight version even if a day case is expected.

From: Questions to Ask Before Hip Surgery