If your GP suggests seeing a general surgeon, it’s natural to have questions. What does a general surgeon do? And does this mean you’ll need surgery?
Dr Alex Craven is a Melbourne-based general surgeon, who also has special interest in weight loss surgery and conditions affecting the stomach and oesophagus. He explains that seeing a surgeon doesn’t always mean you’ll need an operation. Sometimes, it’s simply about getting the right advice, understanding your condition better, and exploring the most suitable options – surgical or otherwise.
What Does a General Surgeon Do?
General surgeons are trained to assess and treat conditions that affect the digestive system and abdominal area. This includes the stomach, small and large intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and hernias. They may also be involved in emergency care and performing procedures to help diagnose problems. They also treat a range of other conditions, such as skin lesions, lumps and bumps, and provide endoscopy services.
Whenever possible, many procedures are now performed using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques. These involve smaller cuts and typically mean a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the most appropriate approach based on your individual situation.
What Are the Most Common General Surgery Procedures?
Understanding common procedures helps you know what to expect if referred for surgical assessment.
Here are some of the more common procedures a general surgeon may perform:
- Hernia repair – to fix weakened areas in the abdominal wall, often around the groin or belly button.
- Gallbladder removal – often done when gallstones cause pain or complications.
- Appendix removal – usually needed when appendicitis causes sudden pain or infection.
- Colonoscopy and gastroscopy – procedures used to examine the bowel and upper digestive tract.
- Bowel surgery – sometimes needed for conditions like Crohn’s disease, bowel obstruction, or other ongoing issues.
- Anti-reflux surgery – may be considered when symptoms of reflux don’t improve with medication.
When Should You See a General Surgeon?
You should seek urgent medical care if you experience:
- Severe or ongoing abdominal pain
- Painful or bulging hernias
- Fever with pain in the lower right abdomen (which may indicate appendicitis)
- Severe bloating with difficulty passing bowel movements
You might also be referred to a general surgeon for:
- Ongoing digestive symptoms that aren’t getting better
- Trouble swallowing or frequent heartburn
- Lumps in the abdomen or groin
- Persistent changes in bowel habits
- Gallbladder-related discomfort
If you’re unsure, your GP is your first point of contact and can help decide whether a referral is appropriate.
What Should You Expect During a Surgery Consultation?
A surgical consultation allows you to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. Bring your medical history, medication list, test results, and any questions. Consider bringing someone for support.
During the consultation, the surgeon will listen to your concerns, ask questions, and may perform a physical examination. They’ll then explain what they find and discuss the next steps – this may include further tests, treatment options, or simply monitoring the situation over time.
Surgery isn’t always the outcome. Often, the goal is to give you clarity and reassurance, and to help you make informed decisions about your health.
Dr Craven’s General Surgery Procedures
Dr Craven offers general surgery procedures with a particular focus on weight loss and upper digestive procedures. He uses minimally invasive techniques whenever possible and focuses on what is best for each patient. Working closely with your GP and other specialists, he explores all non-surgical options before recommending an operation.
| Surgery / Procedure | Conditions Treated | Surgical Approach |
| Upper GI Surgery | Acid reflux, oesophageal conditions, stomach problems | Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery |
| Obesity Surgery | Severe obesity, weight-related conditions | Sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, gastric banding |
| Hernia Surgery | Inguinal, umbilical, ventral, and hiatal hernias | Laparoscopic and open repair |
| Gallbladder Surgery | Gallstones, gallbladder inflammation | Laparoscopic cholecystectomy |
| Diagnostic Procedures | Screening, symptom investigation | Colonoscopy, gastroscopy |
| Bowel Surgery | Inflammatory bowel disease, obstructions | Laparoscopic and open techniques |
| General Procedures | Appendicitis, soft tissue conditions | Emergency and elective surgery |
How Should You Prepare for General Surgery?
Preparing for surgery the right way helps things go smoothly and speeds up the healing process.
- Before your operation, your surgical team may organise routine tests such as blood work or a heart check. Your surgeon will also review your current medications and may advise changes, such as pausing certain prescriptions before the procedure. If you smoke, stopping ahead of surgery is strongly recommended to reduce the risk of complications.
- It’s also a good idea to plan time off work, arrange help at home, and think about how you’ll get to and from the hospital.
- On the day of surgery, you’ll be asked not to eat or drink after a certain time. You’ll also meet the anaesthetist, who looks after your comfort and safety during the procedure. You’ll have a chance to ask any final questions before going ahead.
- After surgery, you’ll need someone to drive you home and ideally stay with you for the first day or two. Set up a comfortable area where you can rest, and make sure you know who to contact if you have any concerns after you leave the hospital.
What Are the Risks and Benefits of Surgery?
All therapies carry potential benefits and risks. Understanding these helps you make informed decisions.
Benefits may include symptom resolution or improvement, prevention of complications, improved quality of life, and definitive management of underlying conditions.
Risks can include bleeding, infection, anaesthesia reactions, blood clots, damage to nearby structures, and the need for further surgery.
Not every risk applies to every person or procedure. Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks and benefits based on your health history and the type of surgery being considered.
Thanks to advances in surgical techniques, especially minimally invasive approaches, risks have generally decreased – but no surgery is entirely without risk.
Taking Your Next Healthcare Step
When symptoms worry you or your GP recommends seeing a general surgeon, a specialist can shed light on what’s happening and discuss how to help. Getting checked sooner rather than later usually means simpler solutions and fewer complications down the track.
Dr Craven provides thorough surgical care. From diagnostic procedures to treating known conditions, he’ll explain what’s possible and support you in making the right choice for your situation. Take the first step towards better health. Contact us to book your consultation.
Common Questions About General Surgery
How do I know if I need surgery?
Your GP determines that a referral is appropriate based on your symptoms, history, and response to treatment. The surgeon will then assess whether surgery is necessary or if alternative treatments might be more suitable for your situation.
Are procedures painful?
Modern pain management minimises discomfort, and your team will discuss relief options. Most patients find their pain well-controlled with medication and report less discomfort than they expected.
What’s the difference between Laparoscopic and open surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions and instruments, while open surgery involves larger incisions. Laparoscopic surgery often means less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery, though not all conditions can be treated this way.
How long is the recovery?
This varies depending on the procedure, health status, and individual healing factors. Your surgeon will give you a realistic timeline and explain what activities you can do at each stage of recovery.
Will I have scars?
All surgery creates some scarring, but modern techniques minimise this. Laparoscopic procedures typically leave smaller scars that fade significantly over time, often becoming barely noticeable.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is general and does not constitute individual medical advice. Treatment outcomes vary between individuals, and results cannot be guaranteed. All surgical procedures carry risks and benefits that should be discussed with qualified healthcare professionals. Always consult your doctor for advice specific to your situation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting concerning your procedure.
