There is a lot to think about when getting ready for urologic surgery. Many people think about things like your surgeon’s skills, the facility and the costs. Learning more about your surgery and asking questions can help you feel more at ease and ready for surgery day.

Learn about your Surgeon

Did you know all urologists are surgeons? Learning more about who will be doing your surgery can help feel at ease. You may want to ask how many times they’ve done the surgery you are having. You may also want to ask about the types of techniques used and if minimally invasive surgery is an available option for you.

Learn about the Facility

Learning more about where the surgery will be performed can also give you a sense of calm. Will it be at an outpatient surgical center or in a hospital? Is the facility licensed and accredited? Is it located nearby or across town? What do the surgery rooms look like or even, what does the recovery area look like? Having this information can help in knowing what to expect.

Learn about Anesthesia

If you are getting ready for surgery, you may want to learn whether you will be asleep during surgery, in a twilight phase or awake during the entire procedure. An anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in anesthesia, critical care medicine and ways to manage pain. Their goal is to help you stay comfortable during surgery and when you go home. They will talk to you before your procedure and answer all of your questions. They will work closely with your health care team to create a safe and comfortable plan for you.

Learn about the Cost

It is good to get ready for surgery by learning about the costs of the procedure and your follow-up care. This will help you avoid any “surprise” medical bills. It can also be helpful to learn about your insurance coverage – like what co-pays or deductibles you will have to pay. Learning about whether your preferred surgeon and facility are “in-network” is of great value because these may impact your costs.

Strive to Live Healthy

Living healthy before surgery can help you get ready for the day of surgery. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well and, with your doctor's okay, exercise. If you smoke, it is good to stop smoking before surgery. Smoking can cause problems with breathing and may delay your recovery progress.