Your questions, answered.

No. You can book a consultation directly. If your doctor has referred you, bring the referral letter and any recent test results or scans.

Yes. Many of our patients are booked by a son, daughter or partner. Use the booking form and tell us who the visit is for.

Dr. Vaccianna will ask about your symptoms and history, examine you and review any results. He will then explain what he thinks is happening and your options. Some people need further tests before a final plan.

The team will tell you how long to allow when they confirm your appointment. There is always time for your questions.

Surgery is done under anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the operation. Some discomfort afterwards is normal, and you will be given a plan to manage it. Keyhole surgery can often mean less pain than open surgery.

Many people with these conditions have surgery safely. Your conditions will be checked and managed before any operation. Bring a list of your medications to your consultation.

Yes, very normal. Anaesthesia today is closely monitored by a specialist anaesthetist. You can ask to speak with them about your worries before surgery.

No. Treatment depends on your symptoms and findings. Sometimes watching and waiting, or other treatments, are the right choice.

Keyhole surgery, also called laparoscopic surgery, uses a few small cuts and a thin camera instead of one larger opening.

It suits many patients but not all. Dr. Vaccianna will advise after your assessment.

Many keyhole procedures, such as some hernia repairs and gallbladder operations, can allow you to go home the same day or the next day. It depends on the procedure, your health and how you recover. Dr. Vaccianna will discuss this with you.

It depends on the procedure. Many people return to light activity within one to two weeks after keyhole surgery. You will get advice for your job and lifestyle.

Usually when you can wear a seatbelt comfortably and brake hard without pain, and you are no longer taking medicines that cause drowsiness. Check with your insurer too.

No. A hernia does not heal by itself, but most can be repaired safely. See the hernia page.

Yes. Most people notice no difference in daily life. See the gallstone page.

No. Some cancers may be treated with surgery, depending on type, stage, location and overall health. See cancer and other surgeries.