“What questions should I ask my surgeon before my surgery?”

Google the type of Surgery and look it up on You Tube.

The idea of “informed consent” is that the patient agrees to proceed with surgery after they have been given the risks, benefits, and alternatives to surgery. Many now include expected post-operative recovery to this list. I think any good discussion with your surgeon should include these - and how often the risks/complications can occur. For newer/novel surgeries (i.e. robotics, etc.) - it is generally an OK question to ask the surgeon about their volumes of doing that procedure. Generally, having done MORE is better. Although complications from surgery are generally rare, it is good to get a sense of whether the surgeon will “stick with you” if they arise, as opposed to one who will “push you away.” Not easy to determine at times, but helpful.

Ask how many similar cases he’s done and what to expect post-op, when you can eat, make love, or go to the gym, what his recurrence rates are, etc. Shower the night before surgery and in the morning.

What are the risks of the procedure?
What are the side effects or long-term consequences (both positive and negative) of the procedure?
How long is surgery?
How long will I be in the hospital?
How long is the recovery process?
How long will I need to be off work?
Do I have any dietary restrictions after surgery?
Do I have any activity restrictions after surgery?
What medications, specifically for pain, will I receive after surgery?
Will I have any wound care?

Those are a good start! Don't be afraid to ask questions. You can never have too much information.