Ask about anything you do not understand. Follow the doctor's directions. If you have a problem with the directions, tell the doctor-the sooner, the better. If you have made any changes in the treatment plan, tell the doctor. If you feel worse, have new symptoms, or have side effects from the treatment, call your doctor.
Some surgery has to be done right away.
But most surgery is not an emergency. That means you have time to talk with your doctor and decide what is best for you. No surgery, not even minor surgery, is risk-free. To decide if a procedure is right for you, learn about it and its possible benefits and risks. Research shows that patients who know the facts about surgery and other treatments can better work with their doctors to make decisions based on science and on what the patient prefers.