Surgery planner
If you're considering having an operation or your GP has suggested you may need surgery, this guide is for you.
It will take you through all the steps in the process, from referral to recovery, so you're fully prepared and know what questions to ask at each stage.
Before you start, you'll need to decide which hospital you'd like to be referred to. Our tips onchoosing a hospital can help. You can also compare hospitals by following these steps:
Once you've chosen your hospital, your GP will refer you to see a specialist at this hospital.
You can find out more about each stage of the treatment journey by using the links below:
If you're considering having an operation or your GP has suggested you may need surgery, this guide is for you.
Your first appointment will be with the consultant in charge of your treatment at your chosen hospital.
In the days leading up to your surgery, you'll need to make travel arrangements for getting to and from the hospital, and think about what to pack.
Your admission letter from the hospital will tell you the date and time of your operation, and what time you need to turn up.
After surgery youll be moved to the recovery room, where youll be told how the operation went.
Don't be surprised if you feel very tired when you get home, especially if you've had a major operation or a general anaesthetic.