Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Please feel free to browse through the following FAQ's as they will answer most questions regarding the procedures performed.
Why should I consider private treatment?
Privately, the appointments and treatment are arranged with minimal delay. Mr D'Souza will personally look after all your treatment and all tests and investigations will be checked by experienced consultants. As an in-patient, you will have your own private room with en suite and all facilities, including television and telephone.
Will my private health insurance cover the cost of my treatment?
Yes. Mr D'Souza is recognised by all the major medical insurance companies. However, you will need to obtain pre-authorisation from your insurers and confirm the adequacy of your individual cover. We can assist in this process if required.
I do not have private medical insurance but would like private care.
If you are not insured you can be seen as a self pay patient. We also offer a fixed cost care service, which covers your treatment and one post operative consultation. You may also apply for a credit card with BMI hospitals, which helps to spread the cost of treatment over an agreed period of time.
What happens at my first visit?
Mr D'Souza will take the full history of your problem and examine you in detail. He will also arrange any necessary investigations. We endeavour to carry out all the tests at the time of your first visit and hope to advise you of the results as soon as we can.
How is my surgery planned?
After your initial consultation and investigations, you will be advised regarding the various options available to you. If surgery is advised, we can book a convenient date for you. Normally, a pre-operative assessment is carried out by the hospital before your admission to make sure the whole process runs smoothly and to address any anaesthetic issues. Generally, you are admitted two hours before surgery. On admission, you will be seen by the Consultant Anaesthetist who will carry out your anaesthesia. You will also be seen by Mr D'Souza, who will discuss any last minute queries you may have. Please feel free to write down any questions beforehand so these can be discussed. Our staff will do their best to make the whole process run smoothly.
Who actually performs the surgery?
Mr D'Souza performs the entire surgical procedure from start to finish.
What happens after surgery?
Before you leave the hospital you will be given instructions regarding aftercare. We urge you to follow these instructions very carefully. Should you have any queries, please ask our hospital staff. Alternatively, do not hesitate to contact us either by telephone or email.
Will I have scars?
Mr D'Souza takes extreme care to make sure that wounds heal well with good cosmetic outcome. We would like you to keep the wound moist but not wet or dry. The moisture can be maintained by cleaning the wound daily with boiled cool water and an application of Vaseline. We also recommend the use of preparations with SPF of 25 or over for about nine months.
What are the risks of Surgery?
Specific risks have been discussed under each procedure. Mr D'Souza would like to reassure his patients that these risks are uncommon and extreme care is taken to avoid them.
How much time do I need off work?
Generally, we advise two weeks off routine work following surgery. However, in some instances, this is shorter or may even be longer. The hospital will provide you with a sick certificate before being discharged.
How does smoking affect the operation?
Smoking adversely affects the anaesthetic and wound healing. It is advisable to stop smoking at least 24 hours prior to your anaesthetic. Ideally, a seven day period of cessation is much preferred both before and after surgery. If you need further help on this, please let us know.
What shall I bring into hospital?
You must bring with you any medication you are currently taking, including your inhalers etc. Please also bring your nightwear (preferably buttoning down front), daywear, dressing gown, toiletries, slippers, books and magazines and a pen. The hospital will, of course, be able to provide you with all these should it be required. Please do not bring any valuables.
Who should I contact if I have any queries?
You can contact us either by telephone or email:
Telephone: A Bryant: 020 8301 6678
Email: dsouza@doctors.org.uk
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Why should I consider private treatment?