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What a general surgeon does

A general surgeon is a doctor who diagnoses and operates on conditions of the abdomen, digestive tract, breast, thyroid, skin and soft tissue, and who manages many surgical emergencies. Training is MBBS followed by an MS or DNB in General Surgery. Many general surgeons also perform laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, which usually means smaller cuts, less pain and a faster recovery.

When to see a surgeon

• A bulge in the groin or abdomen — a possible hernia.
• Severe pain in the lower right abdomen with fever or vomiting — possible appendicitis (emergency).
• Pain after fatty meals, or gallstones on ultrasound.
• Painful bleeding on passing stool, anal swelling or pain — piles, fissure or fistula.
• A lump in the breast, neck or elsewhere in the body.
• Thyroid swelling, varicose veins, or a boil or abscess.
• Injury or acute abdomen needing urgent assessment.

Common procedures

Hernia repair, appendicectomy, gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), haemorrhoid and fistula surgery, thyroid surgery, breast lump excision, abscess drainage, and surgery for bowel conditions. Not every condition needs an operation: small piles may respond to diet and medicines, and some hernias are watched carefully if symptoms are minimal.

Before and after surgery

Pre-operative checks usually include CBC, blood sugar, kidney function, a clotting profile and an ECG, with anaesthesia assessment. Ask what the operation involves, alternatives, risks, hospital stay and recovery time. Follow fasting instructions and post-operative advice about activity and wound care.

Cost and choosing

Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹500 to ₹1,500, and may vary; surgery costs vary widely by procedure, technique, hospital and room, so ask for an itemised estimate and check insurance. Choose an MS/DNB-qualified surgeon with experience in your procedure, a well-equipped hospital, and consider a second opinion for non-emergency surgery. Compare surgeons and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.