At our first consultation I'll take a detailed history from you and discuss your treatment goals. These appointments are usually 30 minutes long.
You can book a consultation without a General Practitioner (GP) referral. However, you might consider seeing a GP beforehand.
If you’re using private medical insurance, you'll need to provide us with the insurer's details and get approval before booking an appointment with us. Your policy documents will advise you how to do this.
I believe that the best surgical outcomes are achieved when patients are active participants in their own care. That's I take a patient-centred approach to every procedure, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.
You'll receive recommendations for treatment, diet, exercise, and complimentary therapies where appropriate. I may also confirm that you do not need further treatment or intervention.
I will always make sure that you are well-informed about all the benefits and possible complications of any proposed treatment. I'll also outline any alternatives to surgery if suitable, so that you have as much information as you need to make an informed decision.
Once you are happy to proceed we will schedule you on a suitable date. We will also book any scans or tests that are required ahead of the procedure.
Contact us if you have any questions, we'll always be happy to help.
Our systems are fully integrated with all major UK insurance providers to ensure that your treatment is processed seamlessly. There are affordable treatment plans for self-paying patients, including fixed price packages and interest-free finance options.
We encourage you to abstain from smoking for a minimum of 4 weeks prior to surgery. This is because smoking increases your risk of many complications such as chest and wound infections. Different treatments are available from shops, pharmacies and on prescription to help you manage withdrawal symptoms.
You will be advised to stop eating 6 hours before your scheduled procedure time, and to stop drinking water for 2 hours prior.
Upon arrival for surgery you will be registered by our friendly Patient Service Advisors before being prepped for your procedure. This involves routine checks of your vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure.
You will be asked to change into a gown and compression stockings where indicated. These stockings will help prevent blood clots forming in the veins in your legs.
Both your anaesthetist and I will see you before the procedure. We will discuss with you what to expect during and after your procedure and verify your consent to proceed. We'll answer any questions that you might have.
You will then have your procedure in the operating theatre or endoscopy suite.
Afterwards, you will recover in a tranquil environment under the excellent care of the nursing team.
Generally, abdominal wounds from surgery are covered by a water-proof dressing. You may shower with this dressing (but no baths) and remove them after one week.
I will review you before the end of the day. If all is well then you may be discharged home the same day or the following day.
You must not drive, drink alcohol, operate machinery, or sign legal documents for 24 hours after your procedure if you were given sedation or general anaesthesia.
I will provide you with specific advice related to the surgery and recovery, and will answer any questions that you may have.
I will perform follow-up care to ensure that your health is optimised, and you feel satisfied with your treatment. I routinely assess all my patients 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. This would either be an in-person clinic appointment or a video or telephone appointment.