Be sure to ask about your surgeon's qualifications. Surgeons who are board-certified have successfully completed training and passed exams for their specialty. Don't hesitate to call the doctor's office and ask for this information. Your State or local medical society and the hospital where the surgeon operates also should be able to verify his or her training. Getting a Second Opinion Getting a second opinion from another surgeon is a good way to make sure that having surgery is the best choice for you.
Many people are uneasy about seeking another opinion.
They worry that they might offend their doctor. However, getting a second opinion is a common medical practice. Most doctors encourage it. Getting a second opinion is a good way to get additional expert advice from another doctor who knows a lot about treating your particular medical problem. In addition, a second opinion can reassure you that your decision to have surgery is the right one.