What Do General Surgeons Do?

If you’ve ever been referred to a general surgeon, you may have wondered what exactly they do – of course they are surgeons, but how broad does it go? General surgeons are highly trained physicians who diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of conditions that often require surgical care, particularly involving the abdomen, digestive system, and soft tissues.

General surgeons play a critical role not only in the operating room, but also in guiding patients through diagnosis, treatment decisions, and recovery.

The Scope of Care General Surgeons Provide

General surgeons are trained to treat both common and complex conditions. Their expertise spans elective procedures, urgent surgeries, and long-term condition management, making them an essential part of a patient’s care team.

Some of the most common procedures general surgeons perform include:

• Hernia repair
• Gallbladder removal
• Appendix removal
• Colon and bowel surgery
• Treatment of infections, abscesses, and soft tissue conditions

While these procedures may sound routine, each one requires careful evaluation, precision, and personalized care. General surgeons assess symptoms, order and interpret imaging, and determine whether surgery is the best option — or if non-surgical treatment may be appropriate.

More Than Surgery: Care Before and After the Operation

A general surgeon’s role begins well before the day of surgery. During the initial consultation, they review a patient’s medical history, evaluate symptoms, explain the diagnosis, and discuss treatment options. This ensures patients understand what’s happening in their body and why surgery may be recommended.

After surgery, general surgeons continue to manage recovery. This includes monitoring healing, managing pain, preventing complications, and coordinating follow-up care. They also work closely with nurses, primary care providers, and specialists to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.

What is the Difference Between General Surgeons and Surgical Specialists?

One common question patients ask is how general surgeons differ from surgical specialists. While specialists focus on a specific organ or system — such as the heart, brain, or joints — general surgeons are trained across a wide range of conditions and procedures.

General surgeons often serve as the first surgical point of contact. They can manage many conditions themselves and, when needed, refer patients to subspecialists for highly complex or specialized care. This broad training allows them to see the bigger picture and help guide patients to the right care at the right time.

How General Surgeons Coordinate Care

Healthcare is rarely one-size-fits-all, and general surgeons frequently collaborate with other physicians to deliver comprehensive care. They may work alongside primary care providers, gastroenterologists, oncologists, radiologists, and emergency physicians to ensure each patient receives coordinated, well-informed treatment.

This team-based approach is especially important when managing chronic conditions, complex diagnoses, or recovery after major surgery. By staying involved throughout the process, general surgeons help ensure continuity of care and clear communication at every step.

What to Expect at Your First Visit With a General Surgeon

Meeting with a general surgeon doesn’t automatically mean surgery is imminent. Often, the first visit is focused on understanding symptoms, confirming a diagnosis, and discussing all available options.

During your appointment, you can expect:

• A review of your medical history and current symptoms
• Discussion of imaging or test results
• An explanation of treatment options, including non-surgical approaches
• Time to ask questions and understand next steps

The goal is to create a plan that aligns with your medical needs and personal comfort level.

If you’ve been referred to a general surgeon, know that their role extends far beyond the operating room. They are there to guide, educate, and support you every step of the way.

General Surgery at Oklahoma Surgical Associates

At Oklahoma Surgical Associates, general surgeons provide comprehensive, patient-centered care for a wide range of conditions — from common procedures to more complex surgical needs. With a focus on accurate diagnosis, leading-edge technology, and compassionate, coordinated care before and after surgery, our team is committed to our patients at every stage of their surgical journey.