General SurgeonLong Beach, CA
A general surgeon is a medical specialist trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that may require surgical intervention. They can perform both minimally invasive and open surgeries to address issues such as hernias, gallbladder problems, and abnormal growths. With timely surgical care, they can relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and promote a faster recovery.
Here at Associates in General Surgery, we customize treatment based on each patient’s symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. Our team is committed to improving your health and well-being. Call our Long Beach office at (562) 362-3939 today to schedule a consultation with a general surgeon.
Conditions a General Surgeon Can Treat
General surgeons address various medical concerns that may require surgical attention. These include gallbladder inflammation, hernias, benign lumps, suspicious masses, and complications from gallstones. When medication or lifestyle changes are not effective, surgical procedures such as cholecystectomy, lumpectomy, and laparoscopic hernia repair can provide long-term relief. Many of these treatments use minimally invasive techniques to support faster recovery, though open surgery may be necessary when appropriate.
“These include gallbladder inflammation, hernias, benign lumps, suspicious masses, and complications from gallstones.”
Signs To See a General Surgeon
It can be hard to tell when a patient needs general surgery. Typically, they are referred to a general surgeon by their primary care team, although patients may sometimes self-refer. Either way, several symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires surgical evaluation. While not every case leads to surgery, early consultation with a general surgeon can help determine the best course of action. Some signs that may warrant a consultation include:
- Localized or ongoing abdominal pain
- Visible bulges in the abdomen or groin
- Recurring indigestion or gallbladder discomfort
- Unusual lumps or skin growths
- Persistent swelling or tenderness in one area
These symptoms could point to conditions like hernias, gallstones, or soft tissue abnormalities. A general surgeon can assess the issue, order any necessary imaging or testing, and recommend treatment if surgical intervention is appropriate.
“While not every case leads to surgery, early consultation with a general surgeon can help determine the best course of action.”
Finding the Right Treatment
When non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, a general surgeon can provide advanced care to resolve a variety of medical concerns. Common procedures include gallbladder surgery, hernia repair, and removal of lumps and bumps, which we can customize to the patient's condition, overall health, and preferences. Many of these procedures can be performed as outpatient surgery, meaning without the need for a hospital stay.
For issues such as gallstones or chronic gallbladder inflammation, a general surgeon may recommend a cholecystectomy. This procedure is often done as a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a form of minimally invasive surgery that involves small incisions and a faster healing process. Similarly, surgeons can address abdominal wall defects with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues through procedures like laparoscopic hernia repair or umbilical hernia surgery.
In cases involving suspicious skin lesions or soft tissue masses, a general surgeon may perform a lumpectomy or excision biopsy to rule out or confirm more serious diagnoses. Whether a patient needs inguinal hernia surgery, open gallbladder surgery, or other forms of general surgery, surgeons work closely with patients to ensure effective treatment.
“For issues such as gallstones or chronic gallbladder inflammation, a general surgeon may recommend a cholecystectomy.”
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Preparing for Surgery
General surgeons give patients specific instructions on how to prepare in the days leading up to surgery. This may include fasting, avoiding certain medications, or arranging transportation to and from the facility. Follow these directions carefully to minimize risks and complications.
For outpatient or minimally invasive procedures, recovery often begins the same day, and patients need to rest, manage discomfort, and follow care instructions at home. For more involved or open surgeries, the general surgeon will outline what to expect during the recovery period, including activity restrictions and signs to monitor during healing.
“General surgeons give patients specific instructions on how to prepare in the days leading up to surgery.”
Follow-Up Care From a General Surgeon
Treatment does not stop after the surgery. A general surgeon provides postoperative care to support recovery and ensure that healing stays on track. This involves follow-up appointments to monitor progress, removing sutures or dressings if needed, and checking for signs of infection or complications. Follow-up care also gives patients the opportunity to ask questions, address concerns, and receive personalized guidance on wound care and pain management.
Each recovery plan is tailored to the type of procedure performed, the patient’s health, and their symptoms after surgery. For some, follow-up may be brief and limited to one or two visits, while others may require longer-term monitoring to make a complete recovery. Staying in close contact with the general surgeon and their team helps prevent setbacks and supports proper healing.
“Follow-up care also gives patients the opportunity to ask questions, address concerns, and receive personalized guidance on wound care and pain management.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What does a general surgeon do?
Q. When should you see a general surgeon?
Q. Which procedure is a general surgeon likely to recommend?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What does a general surgeon treat?
A. A general surgeon is trained to treat a wide variety of conditions, such as issues related to the abdomen, skin, soft tissues, and glands. Common procedures involve hernia repair, gallbladder removal, removal of lumps or cysts, and biopsy of suspicious growths. The goal is to resolve or manage the condition in a way that supports long-term health and function.
Q. What is the difference between open and minimally invasive surgery?
A. Open surgery involves making a large incision to gain direct access to the affected area, while minimally invasive procedures use smaller incisions and specialized tools. The latter is often guided by a camera. Minimally invasive techniques offer quicker recovery, reduced scarring, and less postoperative discomfort. However, some conditions require open surgery, such as large, complex hernias.
Q. What can I expect during a consultation with a general surgeon?
A. During a consultation appointment, the general surgeon will review medical history, discuss symptoms, and confirm the diagnosis. The surgeon will then walk the patient through possible treatment options, explain the benefits and risks associated with each, and address any questions or concerns. This visit helps ensure the patient is fully informed and comfortable with the recommended care plan.
Q. How should I prepare for surgery?
A. Preparation for surgery usually includes preoperative testing, medication review, and specific instructions from the care team. Patients may need to fast and avoid drinking fluids for a specified period before the procedure. Follow all preoperative guidelines carefully for a safe procedure, including pausing certain medications as directed.
Q. How long can I expect to stay in the hospital?
A. Many types of general surgery, such as hernia repairs or gallbladder removal, are performed on an outpatient basis. That means patients can return home the same day. However, for open surgeries, an overnight stay is usually recommended. A general surgeon will discuss what to expect based on the treatment plan.
Schedule a Consultation Today
At Associates in General Surgery, we support patients at every step of their treatment, from confirming diagnosis and treatment to postoperative care. To schedule an appointment with a general surgeon, contact us at (562) 362-3939. We provide premier care to patients in Long Beach and nearby.
Contact Us
Associates in General Surgery is located at
701 E 28th St Ste 117A
Long Beach, CA 90806
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