- Inquire about alternative treatment options, as many expensive surgeries can be safely postponed or completely avoided with physical therapy.
- Question the absolute necessity of the procedure to prevent potential overtreatment, since studies suggest many recommended surgeries are unnecessary.
- Evaluate the specific risks and benefits associated with the surgery based on your personal medical history before signing any consent forms.
- Request recommendations for highly skilled surgeons and ask where your doctor would send their own family members for the same procedure.
- Obtain a second opinion from a similarly qualified doctor using platforms like the Dofody app before finalizing any major surgical decisions.


Frequently asked questions
Yes, many surgeries like spinal procedures, joint replacements in the elderly, and ligament repairs can sometimes be avoided. They can often be replaced with conservative treatments like bed rest, physical exercises, and physiotherapy.
Studies show that about three out of ten recommended surgeries or expensive medical procedures may be considered overtreatment. Asking this simple question prompts your doctor to reconsider if the surgery is the only correct path for your condition.
You should ask your doctor about specific risks, such as hemorrhage or reinfection, during your initial consultation. Waiting until you must sign the consent form right before surgery leaves you unprepared for potential complications.
Some conditions, like certain sports injuries or disc prolapses, may heal on their own without surgical intervention. However, you must ask your doctor if this watch-and-wait approach is actually safe and relevant for your specific health condition.
You should seek a second or third opinion from a doctor who holds the same medical qualifications as your primary physician. Avoid consulting practitioners from other streams of medicine, such as Ayurveda or Homeopathy, when evaluating a surgical recommendation.