Preparing for surgery is about more than medical tests, admission forms and practical arrangements. Feeling ready also involves emotional preparation, understanding what to expect and building confidence in the process. When people feel informed, supported and involved in decision-making, they often feel more equipped to approach surgery with greater peace of mind.

Why readiness isn’t just medical 

When preparing for surgery, physical readiness is only one part of the picture. Patients may have concerns about admission, the procedure itself, anaesthesia, recovery time, returning to normal routines and what to expect afterwards. 
 
One of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety is to feel more informed. Emotional and psychological preparation matters too. Understanding your procedure, recovery and hospital journey can help replace uncertainty with a greater sense of control. Patients are encouraged to ask questions, read trusted information and discuss concerns with their healthcare team. 
 
Simple practices can also make the experience feel more manageable. Knowing what to bring to hospital, arranging transport home and planning for recovery can reduce last-minute pressure and help you feel more prepared. Relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises and light physical activity (if permitted) can also help reduce stress. Dr Bronwyn Boesack, specialist general surgeon based at Life Mercantile Hospital in Gqeberha, explains that “Simple measures such as maintaining physical activity where appropriate, optimising nutrition, stopping smoking, controlling chronic medical conditions and discussing concerns early with the surgical team can contribute to better outcomes.” 

The role of trust and care 

Support from family, friends and caregivers can play an important role before and after a procedure. Trusted support systems often help ease emotional strain by providing reassurance, practical help and encouragement. Support may include assistance with household tasks, attending appointments or simply being present to listen. 
 
Nurses, doctors, surgeons and hospital staff also play an important role in helping a patient’s hospital experience, at every stage of care. For Sonay Van Deventer, a patient at Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital in Cape Town, that care left a lasting impression after a hip replacement. 
 
“From the porters to theatre staff, Verna at reception, all the staff in the Protea Ward, the staff at radiology, the kitchen staff, cleaners, Dylan and all the physiotherapists – you guys rock! All of you. My doctor and everyone else working at his office, you all made such an impression on me. I will never forget any of you and what you did for me. Grateful and blessed that my path crossed with all of you.”  

“As surgeons, we often focus on the technical aspects of an operation, but the preparation extends far beyond the operating theatre. Patients who understand their diagnosis, know what to expect from surgery and have an appropriate support system in place are often better equipped to navigate recovery,” explains Dr Boesack. 

How conversations shape confidence 

Surgical care is centred around partnership and shared decision-making. Patients are active members of the care journey. Open conversations with your surgeon create opportunities to discuss concerns, ask questions and understand the reasons behind treatment recommendations. These discussions can help people feel more involved and more confident about the decisions being made. Dr Boesak agrees, “Surgery should be viewed as a partnership between the patient and the health care team.” 
 
Patients may wish to ask questions such as: 

• Why is this surgery recommended?  

• What are the expected benefits and risks?  

• What alternatives are available?  

• What can I expect during recovery?  

• What can I do to prepare?  

 Dr Boesak also shares what studies highlight: “Research has shown that patients who are actively engaged in their care and understand the recovery process often report lower anxiety levels and greater satisfaction with their surgical experience.” 

Why clarity can help reduce fear 

Fear often grows in the spaces where information feels incomplete. While surgery itself may feel intimidating, uncertainty can cause anxiety, too. When people understand what will happen, why it is necessary and what recovery may involve, uncertainty becomes easier to manage. Clarity helps transform unfamiliar situations into something that feels more predictable and less overwhelming. 
 
Feeling ready does not mean feeling completely fearless. It means having the information, support and guidance needed to move forward feeling informed and reassured. “The goal is not to eliminate every fear before surgery – some degree of anxiety is entirely normal. Our role is to ensure that patients feel informed, supported and empowered to make decisions about their care,” adds Dr Boesak. “When patients understand the journey ahead, they can approach surgery with greater confidence and realistic expectations.” 
 
When health concerns arise, seeking advice from a qualified healthcare professional remains the safest and most reliable path to care. 

Speak to your GP and other healthcare professionals to determine the right surgeon for you. Find a specialist on our website and get professional guidance you can trust.