A recommendation for surgery is a big decision, and asking for a second opinion is a normal and sensible step. It is also the right step when an earlier operation did not give the result you were told to expect.
This guide explains what to bring to the visit, what a surgeon reviews, the questions worth asking any surgeon and how cases of failed surgery are handled.
What to bring
- The scan images (on a disc, link or phone) and the written reports. The images matter as much as the report.
- The operation note and discharge summary if you have had surgery.
- A list of treatments already tried: physiotherapy, injections, medication.
- A short timeline of the problem: when it started, what made it worse, what helped.
- Your Emirates ID and insurance card.
What the surgeon reviews
I review your scan images with you, examine the joint and compare the findings with the proposed plan. I explain in plain language whether the findings support surgery, a different operation or further non-surgical treatment. The aim is a clear decision with the reasoning shown, whatever the answer is.
Questions worth asking any surgeon
- What exactly is the problem, and where is it on my scan?
- What are the options, including no surgery?
- What does each option involve, and what is the rehabilitation?
- How often do you perform this operation?
- What happens if it does not work?
These questions work for shoulder, knee and joint replacement decisions alike.
Where an earlier operation did not work
I have a special interest in cases where earlier surgery has not worked, including revision procedures. I review the earlier images and the operation note with the patient and explain what went wrong and what can be done. My experience across shoulder, knee and sports surgery is laid out on the verification page, with links to check each item.
Common reasons for a second opinion
- A recommendation for a large operation, for example a knee replacement or a rotator cuff repair.
- Conflicting advice from two clinics.
- A scan report that does not match the symptoms.
- A graft or implant choice you want explained.
- Pain that continues after surgery.
A second opinion in Dubai
Consultations are at Medcare JBR and Medcare Jumeirah. See locations and how to book. The FAQ page answers common questions about the first visit.
Questions patients ask
Will asking for a second opinion upset my first surgeon?
No. It is a routine request and your records belong to you.
Do I need new scans?
Usually the scans you have are reviewed first. New imaging is ordered only when it will change the decision.
How long does a second opinion take?
It is a single consultation with a clear explanation at the end.
Can I bring my scans on my phone?
Yes, as long as the images and not only screenshots of the report are included.
Do you take second opinions on surgery done elsewhere?
Yes. Bring the operation note and the imaging from before and after.
Check the facts yourself
- You can verify my current post on the Medcare physician page.
- You can verify my earlier hospital role on the Medeor Hospital Dubai doctor page.
- You can verify my published research at DOI 10.4103/jotr.jotr_17_24.
- The full list of qualifications and links is on the verification page and my verified Prezlo profile.
Book a second opinion in Dubai
Call or WhatsApp +971 553117577, request an appointment online, or see the contact page for the address and consultation days. I examine the problem, review any scans you bring and explain each option before any decision is made.
Keep reading
- Joint replacement
- Shoulder surgery in Dubai
- Knee arthroscopy and ACL reconstruction
- Total knee replacement: who is a candidate
- Orthopaedic FAQs for Dubai patients
- Orthopaedic surgeon in JBR and Jumeirah
- Verify Dr Sagala’s credentials