Speaking with a Surgeon Doesn’t Always Mean Getting Surgery

Learn what a consultation with a surgeon offers you. Understand that talking to one does not automatically force you to have a procedure.

Which came first, the surgeon or the surgery?

For many people, the word “surgeon” carries an assumption that surgery must be next. That belief keeps countless patients from requesting an appointment they actually need.

In reality, a surgical consultation is not a commitment to an operation. It is a conversation designed to replace uncertainty with answers.

Here is what a consultation with a surgeon truly offers:

1. Understanding

To reach the point of consulting with a specialist, you may need to discuss your health concerns with your primary care physician. They may refer you to a specialist in order for you to get the appropriate care needed. Additionally, our team offers same day appointments in the case you’re looking for care after a test result regarding your gallbladder, breasts, hernia, venous insufficiency, skin lesion, or colon—no referral needed.

A consultation is meant for the surgeon to examine you and discuss your health in detail. Next, they study the information, your medical history, and design a plan that will best fit you—whether that is surgery or not.

2. Possibilities

The point of a consultation is to discover what your medical problem is and give you options to either treat it or cure it. Some medical issues may not require getting surgery, such as venous insufficiencies which may only have you wear compression stockings, sclerotherapy, or lifestyle changes. You’ll learn about your treatment plan or surgery options that complement your health goals. 

Planning

Finally, the surgeon will lay out a personalized plan for you to review. It is at this point where you can decide if taking this path will benefit you. Keep in mind though, you do not have to say “yes”. Ask questions, and have those hard conversations with your provider. You should feel well-informed and confident with the decision you make. Remember to listen to your gut. If your provider does not give you clear information, you can always get a second opinion. Our goal is to provide you with the utmost care to enhance your quality of life.

What Procedures Do We Offer?

Remember to listen to your gut. If your provider does not give you clear information, you can always get a second opinion. Our goal is to provide you with procedures we offer and deliver results that enhance your quality of life.

• Breast Surgery:

  • Our breast surgery providers are here to help you through the difficult process of possible breast cancer. There are different types of breast surgery that we perform for different reasons, depending on your situation. We want to discuss your options with you so together we can make the best choice.

• Gallbladder Surgery:

  • Gallbladder repair surgery is most often performed to treat gallstones or complications stemming from them. You may need to have a cholecystectomy, surgery to remove your gallbladder, if you have a chronic or persistent gallbladder disease. This surgery can be performed using laparoscopic or robotic surgery, meaning a minimally invasive procedure.

• Hernia Surgery:

  • A hernia is a gap in the abdominal wall that allows tissue from inside your body to push into an area where it shouldn't be. During a hernia repair surgery, the surgeon pushes the bulging tissue back into place and repairs the weakened connective tissue and muscle.

• Skin Lesion Surgery:

  • Many types of skin lesions can be removed for either medical and cosmetic reasons. Skin lesion removal is often recommended when the lesion shows signs of skin cancer, such as a change in color or shape.

• Colon Surgery:

  • Colorectal surgery includes a range of procedures that can treat conditions affecting the lower digestive tract, ranging from hemorrhoids to diverticulitis to cancer. Many procedures can be performed using minimally invasive, or laparoscopic or robotic, techniques. This procedure is typically safer and may result in faster recovery.

• Venous Surgery:

  • Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood back to the heart. However, some individuals have weak or damaged valves causing health issues. These individuals may suffer from varicose veins, pain, swollen limbs, leg heaviness and fatigue, skin changes, and ulcers. Dr. Orgler and Dr. Harrison work at The Vein Center to treat these concerns.

Should you schedule a consultation?

If you find yourself too nervous to schedule a consultation for fear of surgery, we understand. Our goal is to ease your nerves and provide the utmost care and information. Just remember, stay away from unreliable online forums and speak with healthcare providers you trust. This is ultimately your decision, and our providers are here to help you make the best decision for your long-term health.

Who We Are

Surgery Associates has proudly served North Mississippi for over 47 years by delivering excellent care with respect to venous, breast, colorectal, skin lesion, hernia, gallbladder, laparoscopic, and robotic surgeries. Our specialists are here to help address and treat your concerns.

If you have immediate health concerns, please reach out to your primary care physician. For any of the above health concerns, reach out to our team at (662) 844-5344. We are dedicated to providing the best level of care possible.