Your surgeon can draw a picture or a diagram and explain to you the steps involved in the procedure. One way may require more extensive surgery than another. Ask why your surgeon wants to do the operation one way over another. Return to Contents 2. There are many reasons to have surgery.
Some operations can relieve or prevent pain.
Others can reduce a symptom of a problem or improve some body function. Some surgeries are performed to diagnose a problem. Surgery also can save your life. Your surgeon will tell you the purpose of the procedure. Make sure you understand how the proposed operation fits in with the diagnosis of your medical condition.