Your consultation guide
Questions to ask before surgery
Leave your consultation understanding the recommendation, the choices available and what each could mean for your life.
Begin with your own priorities
Write down the three things you most want the consultation to resolve. Describe the activities that matter to you, what is difficult now and what you hope to regain. A question about returning to a particular job or hobby gives the discussion a more useful focus than simply asking whether an operation is good.
Bring the recommendation you have already received, alongside your records. If different clinicians have offered different advice, write both recommendations down so you can discuss where their reasoning differs.
01 / Your questions
Understand the recommendation
Start with what the operation is intended to change.
- Which problem would the operation address?
- What other treatment choices should I consider?
- What would waiting mean for me?
02 / Your questions
Weigh up the trade-offs
Ask about the likely benefit and the risks in your own circumstances.
- What improvement is realistic, and what may stay the same?
- Which complications should I understand?
- How would we judge whether treatment has worked?
03 / Your questions
Plan for the practicalities
Understand what treatment and recovery would involve before committing.
- Who would carry out the procedure, and what is their experience?
- What would happen during the operation and hospital stay?
- What help, rehabilitation and time away from work might I need?
If you have already had treatment
Make a short timeline: your symptoms before treatment, the treatment date and how things changed afterwards. Mark any periods of improvement as well as setbacks. Bring the original operation note where available, and explain which question about your recovery remains unanswered.
Before the appointment ends
Check that you can explain the opinion back in your own words. Ask what remains uncertain, whether more information is needed and who will arrange the next step. Note anything that needs a separate appointment or a separate fee.
Your second opinion with Professor Lee includes a written opinion letter. Use it alongside your notes when considering the next steps or discussing the opinion with your existing clinical team.
Your appointment checklist
- My three main questions and the activities I want to return to.
- A short symptom and treatment timeline.
- The advice I have already received, including any different recommendations.
- My clinic letters, operation notes, scan images and reports.
- A place to record answers and any agreed next steps.
Second Opinion Clinic
Talk through your next step.
£400 · 45 minutes · Monthly clinic sessions
Confirm the next clinic date, location and available slot when booking.