Q. What’s an approximate timeline from consultation to surgery?
The timeline from your initial consultation to your date of surgery can vary based on a number of factors, including the surgery that will take place, the surgeon’s availability, your schedule, your health and if additional preparation is required.
Following your consultation your surgeon may request medical clearance and labs prior to proceeding with surgery based on your medical history and current list of medications. Based on the results of your labs there may be additional steps to prepare for surgery and receive medical clearance.
Certain comorbidities, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory disorders, can increase the risk of surgical complications and pose a significant challenge to the your recovery. In such cases, your surgeon may recommend postponing the surgery until the comorbidities are well controlled or treated.
Once you are cleared for surgery, scheduling can take days, weeks, or months depending on the availability of your surgeon, the facility and your personal schedule. For most surgical cases you should plan for a minimum of 7-10 days of rest following your surgery, with additional limitations that can last up to 3-6 months, that will typically encompass movement and lifting to achieve optimal results. Consider travel plans, child care, and your work schedule when choosing your desired surgery date.
Therefore, the approximate timeline from consultation to your date of surgery can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the factors mentioned above. It's essential to discuss your desired surgical date and the estimated timeline with your surgeon during your initial consultation to have a better idea of what to expect.