Your Surgery
Guiding you through every step of your surgical journey
Undergoing surgery can feel overwhelming, but having a clear understanding of what to expect may help you feel more prepared and confident. This section outlines the key stages of your surgical journey, from your initial consultation and preparation, through to the procedure itself and your recovery. Our aim is to provide you with the information you need so you can make informed decisions, feel supported, and know what steps are ahead.
Preparing for your surgery
If surgery is part of your treatment plan, our goal is to ensure you feel well-informed, confident, and supported at every stage. From pre-operative assessments to hospital admission, rehabilitation, and financial planning, we’ll guide you through each step to help you prepare for a smooth and safe surgical experience.
KEY INFORMATION FOR SURGICAL PATIENTS
- Pre-Surgical Assessment: Before surgery, you may be required to have further imaging, blood tests, or medical clearance from your GP or specialist physician.
- Hospital Admission Details: Once your surgery is booked, you will receive detailed instructions regarding hospital admission time, fasting requirements, medications, and what to bring with you on the day.
- Informed Consent: Your surgeon will explain the procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. You will be asked to sign a surgical consent form once all your questions have been answered.
- Post-Operative Care: Recovery plans, rehabilitation options, and follow-up appointments will be discussed prior to surgery. Most patients will require a wound check two weeks post surgery and then a further follow up with their surgeon six to eight weeks post operatively.It is important to arrange appropriate support at home during your recovery period.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: You will be provided with a detailed quote outlining any out-of-pocket expenses related to your procedure. Please contact our administrative team if you have any questions regarding fees or private health insurance coverage. Out of pocket costs will include surgeon fee, surgical assistant, anaesthetist and any costs not covered by your insurer.
If you have further questions or concerns about your surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact our clinic. We are here to help you feel confident and informed throughout your surgical journey.
Understanding surgery costs and private health insurance
Before proceeding with surgery, it’s important to understand your private health insurance coverage.
- Contact Your Health Fund: Call your private health insurance provider and ask if you are covered for the specific procedure recommended by your surgeon. You may need to provide the MBS item number, which our clinic can supply.
- Confirm Hospital Cover: Ensure your policy includes hospital cover and that there are no exclusions or waiting periods that may apply to your procedure or condition.
- Ask About Out-of-Pocket Costs: Check if there are any excess fees, co-payments, or gaps not covered by your insurance.
FOR UNINSURED PATIENTS
If you do not have private health insurance, you can still proceed with surgery as a self-funded patient. Below is a summary of the steps you’ll need to take:
- Request a Surgical Quote: Once your surgeon has recommended surgery, our team will provide a detailed estimate of costs. This will include the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist fee, and assistant fee (if applicable).
- Hospital Fee Estimate: Our team will request a separate quote from the hospital, which covers theatre use, surgical equipment, nursing care, and your hospital stay. These fees must be paid directly to the hospital prior to surgery. This will also include all costs pertaining to prosthesis used (if applicable). Please note that the hospital cost is not covered by Medicare.
- Pre-Payment is Required: All surgical fees and hospital costs must be paid in full before the procedure can go ahead. Our team will outline the payment process and important due dates.
Our staff are here to help you understand the costs involved and guide you through the process. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
The importance of education and preparation
At Melbourne Orthopaedic Clinic, we place a strong emphasis on patient education and preparation. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after surgery helps reduce anxiety, builds confidence, and allows you to take an active role in your recovery.
For patients undergoing joint replacement, we provide access to the Patient Optimised Pathway (POP) App. This digital tool guides you step by step through your preparation and recovery, ensuring you feel supported and well-informed at every stage.
Physiotherapy is central to preparation and recovery. Working with physiotherapists both before and after surgery may help you:
- Build strength and flexibility in the affected joint
- Learn how to use assistive devices such as crutches
- Follow a tailored rehabilitation plan designed to optimise your recovery
Our surgeons, Prof. Hunt and Prof. Sallen, view recovery as a collaborative process. Simple measures, such as encouraging patients to wear their own clothes during rehabilitation, reinforce the idea that you are recovering, not unwell.
We also streamline post-operative care by focusing on essential tests and prioritising your overall well-being. While these approaches may help shorten hospital stays, patient safety and individualised care always remain the highest priorities.
Recovery is a team effort. Your surgeon works closely with anaesthetists, physiotherapists, nurses, and other health professionals to provide cohesive care tailored to your individual needs. With thorough preparation and collaborative support, many patients experience smoother recoveries and earlier returns to daily activities.