1. Check qualifications and registration
A general surgeon should hold a recognised postgraduate surgical degree (for example MS or DNB in General Surgery in India, or FRCS / board certification elsewhere) and be registered with the national or state medical council. Many laparoscopic surgeons also complete a fellowship in minimal access surgery (such as FMAS or FIAGES) or in a sub-speciality like bariatric surgery or proctology.
Registration numbers can usually be verified online through the medical council's public register. Do not hesitate to ask for it – a good surgeon will not be offended.
2. Ask about experience with your operation
Overall years of practice are useful, but the most important figure is how often the surgeon performs the specific procedure you need. Outcomes for laparoscopic hernia repair, cholecystectomy, fistula surgery and bariatric surgery improve clearly with volume.
- How many of these procedures do you perform each year?
- What is your conversion rate from laparoscopic to open surgery?
- What complications do you see most often, and how are they handled?
- What is your recurrence rate (hernia, fistula, piles, varicose veins)?
3. Look at the hospital, not only the surgeon
Surgery is a team effort. Check that the hospital has a full-time anaesthesia team, a modern laparoscopic (HD or 3D) tower, an ICU or HDU on site for emergencies, and a blood bank. For bariatric surgery, ask whether the centre has a dietitian, physician and psychologist as part of a multidisciplinary programme.
4. Understand all your options
A trustworthy surgeon explains non-surgical choices as well as surgical ones. For example, early piles often settle with fibre and fluids, small asymptomatic gallstones rarely need removal, and some minimally symptomatic inguinal hernias in men can be watched safely. If every option on offer is the most expensive one, consider a second opinion.
5. Get clear information on cost and recovery
- A written estimate that includes surgeon, anaesthetist, operating room, implants (such as mesh or staplers), medicines and room charges.
- Whether the package covers complications or extra nights.
- Insurance or cashless approval steps and documents needed.
- Expected hospital stay, time off work and follow-up schedule.
Red flags
- Pressure to decide on the same day for a non-emergency problem.
- Guarantees of "no pain", "no recurrence" or "100% success".
- Reluctance to share qualifications or to put the plan and estimate in writing.
- No discussion of risks or alternatives.
Bring this to your consultation
Take your previous reports (ultrasound, CT, MRI, blood tests), a list of your medicines – especially blood thinners, diabetes and blood-pressure tablets – and any allergies. Write your questions down beforehand and, if possible, bring a family member.
Frequently asked questions
Is laparoscopic surgery always better than open surgery?
Not always. Keyhole surgery usually means less pain, smaller scars and faster recovery, but for some large, complicated or recurrent problems an open approach is safer. A good surgeon offers both and explains why one suits you.
Should I get a second opinion?
For planned (non-emergency) surgery a second opinion is reasonable and common, especially for bariatric surgery, thyroid surgery, complex fistula or recurrent hernia.
What questions matter most?
How often the surgeon performs your exact operation, their complication and recurrence rates, the hospital's back-up facilities, and the complete cost.
Last reviewed: October 2026. This page is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor.