Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Any Surgery

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Be Informed. Be Empowered. Your Surgery, Your Right to Clarity. 

 

Facing surgery — whether it’s planned or unexpected — can feel overwhelming. It often comes with anxiety, uncertainty, and a lot of unanswered questions. At Saishree VitaLife Hospital, Pune, we believe that informed patients make confident and faster-healing patients. 

That’s why asking the right questions before your surgery isn’t just a good idea — it’s essential. 

Here’s a list of the Top 10 Questions you should ask your surgeon and care team before saying “yes” to any surgical procedure. These questions apply whether you’re facing a joint replacement, spine surgery, IVF-related procedures, cardiac care, or general surgery.

1. Why Do I Need This Surgery?

Why it matters: 

Before saying yes to any surgery, it’s important to fully understand why it’s being recommended. Is it to reduce pain, help you move better, or prevent something more serious down the line? When you know the real reason, it’s easier to feel confident and in control of your decision. 

Ask your doctor: 

  • What happens if I choose to wait or skip the surgery?
  • Are there any non-surgical options I can try first?

At SaiShree VitaLife, 

We always put your well-being first. Our doctors believe that surgery should never be the first answer, and we explore all possible non-surgical treatments before moving forward with an operation. You’ll never be rushed. You’ll be guided. 

2. What Are the Risks and Benefits?

Why it matters:  Every surgery — big or small — comes with some level of risk. That’s completely normal. But understanding both the potential benefits and the possible complications helps you make a calm, confident decision that feels right for you. Knowing what to expect can ease your worries and prepare you for what’s ahead. 
Ask your doctor: 
  • What are the chances of a successful outcome in my case? 
  • What should I know about both the short-term and long-term risks?
At SaiShree VitaLife
We believe in being open, honest, and clear with you. Our team will walk you through everything — the good and the challenging — so you feel fully informed, never rushed or pressured. It’s your health, and you deserve to understand every part of the journey. 

3. Who Will Be Performing My Surgery?

Why it matters: 

When it comes to something as important as surgery, it’s natural to want to know exactly who will be taking care of you. Feeling comfortable and confident in your surgeon builds trust, and that trust plays a big role in how you experience the entire process. 

Ask your doctor: 

  • Will you be the main surgeon during my procedure? 
  • How often have you done this particular procedure before? 

At Saishree VitaLife, 

We understand how important that connection is. That’s why our patients always meet and consult with the surgeon who will be performing their procedure. Our specialists aren’t just skilled — they’re experienced, compassionate, and committed to making sure you feel safe, seen, and supported every step of the way. 

4. What Technology or Techniques Will Be Used?

Why it matters: 

The tools and techniques used during your surgery can make a big difference in how you feel afterward. Today, many surgeries can be done using gentler, more precise methods like robotic assistance or laparoscopy, which often means smaller cuts, less pain, and a quicker recovery. Knowing what approach your doctor will use helps you feel more prepared and reassured. 

Ask your doctor: 

  • Will this surgery be done using robotic or minimally invasive techniques?
  • Why do you recommend this specific approach for me? 

At Saishree VitaLife,

We believe in combining expert hands with the best tools to give you the safest, most comfortable experience possible. Our hospital is equipped with: 

  • VELYS, CUVIS & MISSO robots for advanced joint replacements
  • Karl Storz 3D & 4K Laparoscopy systems for precision surgeries
  • Zeiss Microscope for delicate brain and spine procedures 

We always choose the technique that’s best for you — not just what’s convenient — because every patient and journey is unique. 

5. What Will Recovery Look Like?

Why it matters: 

Healing doesn’t stop once the surgery is done — in fact, recovery is where the real journey begins. It can take days, weeks, or sometimes longer, depending on your procedure and overall health. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare mentally and physically, arrange support at home, and plan your routine or time off work. 

Ask your doctor: 

  • Will I need physiotherapy, follow-ups, or any special care? 
  • When can I get back to my usual day-to-day activities? 

At SaiShree VitaLife, 

We walk beside you, not just in the operating room, but long after. Our team creates personalized recovery plans for every patient, and our in-house physiotherapy experts are here to guide your healing, step by step, at your own pace. Your comfort, strength, and confidence matter to us every single day.

6. What Kind of Anesthesia Will Be Used?

Why it matters:  It’s completely normal to feel nervous about anesthesia — in fact, many people worry more about “going under” than the surgery itself. That’s why it’s so important to know what kind of anesthesia will be used, how it works, and how it might make you feel afterward. When you understand the process, it feels a lot less scary. 
Ask your doctor or anesthetist: 
  • Will I be given general, spinal, or local anesthesia? 
  • Are there any side effects or after-effects I should know about?
At Saishree VitaLife
You’ll meet your anesthetist before the procedure, who will carefully review your health, explain everything clearly, and answer any questions you may have. During surgery, your safety and comfort are constantly monitored, and after surgery, we stay close to ensure a smooth and gentle recovery. You’re never alone in the process — we’re right there with you. 

7. What Pre-Surgery Tests Will I Need?

Why it matters: 

Before any surgery, your care team needs to make sure your body is ready. Pre-surgery tests help your doctors understand your current health, avoid unexpected complications, and make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible. Knowing what to expect ahead of time also gives you a chance to prepare. 

Ask your doctor: 

  • What tests will I need before the surgery? 
  • Should I stop taking any regular medications? 

At SaiShree VitaLife, 

We take the guesswork out of preparation. All your essential tests — from MRI, CT, and DEXA scans to blood work and cardiac checks — can be done right here at the

hospital. No running around, no confusion — just clear communication and everything taken care of under one roof, so you can focus on feeling ready, not rushed. 

8. What Are the Costs Involved?

Why it matters: 

Let’s be honest — surgery can bring a lot of questions, and one of the biggest is about cost. Understanding the expenses ahead of time helps you plan better, avoid surprises, and explore your insurance or payment options with peace of mind. It’s not just about affordability — it’s about feeling in control. 

Ask your care coordinator: 

  • Can I get a clear estimate for the surgery, hospital stay, and follow-ups? ● What’s included in the cost? Are there any extra charges I should know about? 

At SaiShree VitaLife, 

We believe in clear, upfront communication — especially when it comes to finances. Our on-floor billing desks are here to help you understand every detail of your bill, assist with insurance claims, and guide you through cashless or reimbursement processes. No confusion, no hidden costs — just honest answers and supportive care. 

9. Where Will I Be Staying Post-Surgery?

Why it matters: 

Healing after surgery isn’t just about medication — it’s also about where and how you recover. A clean, calm, and comfortable environment plays a big role in helping your body rest and heal. Knowing where you’ll be staying also helps your loved ones feel more at ease and better prepared to support you. 

Ask your care team: 

  • How long will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery? 
  • What kind of rooms are available for recovery? 

At SaiShree VitaLife,

We’ve designed our spaces with your comfort and dignity in mind. You can choose from a wide range of stay options — from general wards to premium private suites, all equipped with motorized beds and modern amenities. For patients needing close monitoring, our ICUs are fully equipped with advanced monitors and ventilators and provide round-the-clock expert care. Because where you recover matters just as much as how. 

10. What Happens After I Leave the Hospital?

Why it matters: 

Surgery doesn’t end when you go home. You need a plan for follow-ups, medication, warning signs to watch for, and recovery tracking. 

Ask your doctor: 

  • Will there be follow-up appointments? 
  • Whom do I contact in case of complications? 

We offer structured discharge planning, post-op rehab, and follow-up scheduling before you even leave your room. 

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask 

 

At Saishree VitaLife Hospital, we believe that a well-informed patient is a safer and more satisfied patient. You have every right to ask these questions — and more — before your surgery. 

Your body, your recovery, your right to clarity. 

 

Visit us at Saishree VitaLife Hospital – Wakad, Pune 

A 305-Bed Multispeciality Tertiary Care Center 

 

Where expert care meets empathy, and healing begins with trust.

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