Surgical care in western Michigan
Christine's story
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How do I know if it’s the right time to have surgery?
Talk to your surgeon about whether surgery is right for you. Here are three questions to consider asking your doctor:
- How might surgery help ease my pain or get rid of it?
- How might this procedure help improve how my body works and change daily life afterward?
- How might this surgical treatment help keep my condition from getting worse?
At Ascension Borgess hospitals, you’ll have an entire team dedicated to your care. Your care team will explain the surgery, tell you if you may need to stay in the hospital overnight, and explain your follow-up care as part of your recovery care plan.
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What is a general surgeon?
General surgeons are highly trained in the repair and reconstruction of wounds, bones, muscles and organs in the body. And they use minimally invasive techniques when possible to remove tumors and diseased tissue, and help shorten your recovery time.
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Where will the surgery be performed?
Surgery is done in one of our Ascension Borgess hospitals and surgery centers. We also have specialized surgery locations for heart surgery, orthopedic surgery, brain and spine surgery, bariatric surgery, and more. Many procedures are done as outpatient surgery, which means the procedure is a same-day surgery. But some procedures may require you to stay in the hospital.
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Will my doctor communicate with my family while I am in surgery?
At our surgery centers, your healthcare representative (the family member or friend you have chosen to receive your healthcare information) is updated by your care team. When your procedure is complete, your surgeon will provide a verbal update on your condition.
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How will my family or caregiver know what to do after surgery?
Talk with your doctor before your surgery about how to better prepare for your return home after your procedure. When you are ready to go home after surgery, your care team talks with you and your healthcare representative about the care you will need. After surgery, a discharge plan with home instructions is provided to you and explained to your healthcare representative. We help you understand your pain management, wound care and dietary needs to help make your recovery as comfortable and safe as possible.