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239 verified Surgeons in Philadelphia, PA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/09/2026
Availability last updated 04/09/2026
Hip and Knee Surgeon
5.00
·46 reviews
57 mi · 2035 Lincoln Hwy, Edison, NJ 08817
Accepting new patients · 19 years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in hip replacement + 3 more ·
Read bio
An internationally known expert in hip and knee surgery, Dr. Kamath provides wholistic and cutting-edge treatments for all types of hip and knee conditions. Dr. Kamath is a pioneer in minimally-invasive surgery, anterior total hip replacement, and robotic surgery. He has particular expertise in join...Click to read more
Foot & Ankle Specialist
4.83
·60 reviews
57 mi · 2035 Lincoln Hwy, Edison, NJ 08817
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in broken or dislocated ankle/foot + 2 more ·
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Dr. Meagan Coleman is a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Biology at Nazareth College in Rochester, New York where she was also an active member of the women’s soccer team that made three NCAA playoff appearances during her tenure. Following her unde...Click to read more
Spine Surgeon
4.83
·60 reviews
57 mi · 2035 Lincoln Hwy, Edison, NJ 08817
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in lower back pain ·
Read bio
Dr. Wylie Lopez is a board certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who specializes in Spine surgery. His clinical interests are focused on minimally invasive surgery (MIS), which allows patients an accelerated road to recovery. He has been extensively trained to use the newest technology to assist in surgery...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist
4.73
·60 reviews
57 mi · 2035 Lincoln Hwy, Edison, NJ 08817
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis + 3 more ·
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Dr. Anthony Petrosini was raised in Staten Island, NY. He attended the State University of New York Downstate Medical School in Brooklyn, New York. He completed his residency training at New York University Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital. Dr. Petrosini is fellowship trained and Board Certified...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Orthopedics)
5.00
·8 reviews
57 mi · 2035 Lincoln Hwy, Edison, NJ 08817
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis ·
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Kayce Lustrino started with the Orthopaedic Institute of Central Jersey in September of 2017. Kayce primarily works in Sports Medicine. Her interest in orthopaedics and sports medicine began at Manasquan High School in the student athletic training program and continued at Hofstra University where s...Click to read more
Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon
5.00
·2 reviews
- Mar 16, 2026 by marcella W.Click to read more
57.5 mi · 2690 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08837
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Greenberg is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon who graduated from the University of Florida in Gainesville with a Bachelor of Science in 1988. He then attended the University of Miami School of Medicine and was awarded his Doctor of Medicine in May of 1992. Dr. Greenberg treats all injuries o...Click to read more
Orthopedic Surgeon
57.5 mi · 2690 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08837
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
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With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hess is Board Certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS). The ABOS is an organization with the goal of establishing educational and professional standards for orthopedic residents and surgeons as well as evaluating the qua...Click to read more
Spine Specialist
57.5 mi · 2690 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08837
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in spinal fusion + 4 more ·
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Dr. Avery Buchholz is a board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in complex spine surgery and adult spinal deformity correction. As the newest member of the Hess Spine and Orthopedics team, Dr. Buchholz brings extensive experience in cutting-edge surgical techniques and a deep commitment to improvi...Click to read more
Podiatrist
4.67
·36 reviews
I've been a patient of Dr Yeung for over two years. I came to his practice looking for treatment of sprain ankle. as part of treating my unstable ankle he prescribed insoles (orthotics) and my ankle stability has improved drmatically. Dr. Yeung is very knowledgeble, great listener and really knows h...Click to read more
58 mi · 231 Bridge St, Metuchen, NJ 08840
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time · Expertise in peripheral vascular disease ·
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Dr. Yeung graduated from Rutgers University with an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences. He also obtained a Master of Public Health degree in Epidemiology from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. He spent several years in the pharmaceutical field conducting late-phase clinical trial...Click to read more
Spine Surgeon
58 mi · 25 Main St, Edison, NJ 08837
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 1 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
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Dr. Douglas Slaughter, NJSO’s newest board-certified orthopedic surgeon, has been successfully practicing orthopedic surgery for over 21 years. He specializes in using minimally invasive methods for orthopedic surgery, with a strong focus in reconstructive surgery for spinal injuries. At NJSO, Dr. ...Click to read more
Spine Surgeon
58 mi · 2700 Bridge Ave, Ste 1, Point Pleasant Boro, NJ 08742
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in lower back pain ·
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Monmouth Pain is an Out-Of-Network facility that accepts most major insurance plans. We are In-Network with Medicare. Please call to verify your insurance coverage within 24 hours of scheduling an appointment. Dr. Tawfik is a fellowship-trained Complex and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon dedicat...Click to read more
Podiatrist
4.37
·30 reviews
58 mi · 2911 Route 88, Bldg B Suite 3, Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in chronic skin ulcer + 3 more ·
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Dr. James Sullivan grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and attended Bergin Catholic High School. He graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology. He received his Doctorate Degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, where he graduated as president of his clas...Click to read more
Podiatrist
4.81
·36 reviews
Excellent podiatrist - Dec 1, 2025 by Sam S.Click to read more
58 mi · 2911 Route 88, Bldg B Suite 3, Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic skin ulcer + 2 more ·
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Dr. Greg Clark attended the University of Arizona where he received his Bachelor's Degree in Biology. He also received his Doctorate's Degree in Podiatry and a Master of Science from Barry University School of Graduate Medical Sciences. In addition, Dr. Clark received an Associate's Degree in Libera...Click to read more
Spine Surgeon
58 mi · 1985 NJ-34, Wall Township, NJ 07719
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Expertise in lower back pain ·
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Monmouth Pain is an Out-Of-Network facility that accepts most major insurance plans. We are In-Network with Medicare. Please call to verify your insurance coverage within 24 hours of scheduling an appointment. Dr. Tawfik is a fellowship-trained Complex and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon dedicat...Click to read more
Physiatrist
4.67
·60 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis + 4 more ·
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Dr. Peter Gonzalez is a fellowship-trained sports medicine physician and is board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). He has subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine, Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and Pain Medicine. He treats both athletes and non-athletes with a variety of ...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Orthopedics)
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · Expertise in arthritis ·
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Kelly Guiliano, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in orthopedics, with a focus on joint replacement and fracture care. She joined OIB Ortho in 2018, bringing a strong academic foundation and degrees from Johns Hopkins University and Cornell University. Kelly has gained exte...Click to read more
Spine Surgeon
4.83
·60 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in lower back pain ·
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Dr. Wylie Lopez is a board certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who specializes in Spine surgery. His clinical interests are focused on minimally invasive surgery (MIS), which allows patients an accelerated road to recovery. He has been extensively trained to use the newest technology to assist in surgery...Click to read more
Foot & Ankle Specialist
4.93
·60 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in broken or dislocated ankle/foot + 2 more ·
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Dr. Hollawell attended Moravian College where he earned his Bachelors of Science degree. He was also a four-year starter, all-American, national player of the year nominee, a two-time conference defensive player of the year, and two-time first-team all-conference player in NCAA football. He receiv...Click to read more
Physiatrist
4.87
·62 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis + 5 more ·
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Board-Certified in Sports Medicine, Musculoskeletal Ultrasound & Electrodiagnostic Medicine and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Dr. Laurie Glasser is a board-certified Sports Medicine physician with expertise in non-surgical orthopaedic care, Physical Medicine , Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Orthopedics)
5.00
·8 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis ·
Read bio
Kayce Lustrino started with the Orthopaedic Institute of Central Jersey in September of 2017. Kayce primarily works in Sports Medicine. Her interest in orthopaedics and sports medicine began at Manasquan High School in the student athletic training program and continued at Hofstra University where s...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist
4.87
·61 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis + 5 more ·
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Certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr. Michael Sclafani is an extensively trained surgeon specializing in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and knee. He earned his undergraduate degree in biology from Colgate University, followed by his medical degree from...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist
4.70
·60 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in fracture/dislocation treatment arm/wrist/hand + 7 more ·
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Dr. Jarmon was born and raised in Monmouth County and is a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy in Lincroft. He attended Georgetown University where he majored in Biology. After graduating college he earned his doctorate of medicine from New Jersey Medical School in Newark, and he remained in Newa...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist
4.73
·60 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in arthritis + 3 more ·
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Dr. Anthony Petrosini was raised in Staten Island, NY. He attended the State University of New York Downstate Medical School in Brooklyn, New York. He completed his residency training at New York University Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital. Dr. Petrosini is fellowship trained and Board Certified...Click to read more
Hip and Knee Surgeon
5.00
·46 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · 19 years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in hip replacement + 3 more ·
Read bio
An internationally known expert in hip and knee surgery, Dr. Kamath provides wholistic and cutting-edge treatments for all types of hip and knee conditions. Dr. Kamath is a pioneer in minimally-invasive surgery, anterior total hip replacement, and robotic surgery. He has particular expertise in join...Click to read more
Spine Surgeon
4.74
·61 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in disorders of the thoracic spine + 3 more ·
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Dr. Ramil S. Bhatnagar is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with 25 years of experience. He serves patients at the Orthopaedic Spine Institute with an exceptional quality of care for a wide range of spinal conditions. He is the Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Chief of the Division of Spi...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist
4.97
·60 reviews
58 mi · 2315 Rt 34 S, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Anter Gonzales is board-certified in Pediatrics and Sports Medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of the East in the Philippines, serving the community in clerkships and medical missions before and after finishing his education there. He completed his Pediatric residency trai...Click to read more
Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
He is very nice and explains things very well by DCClick to read more
Wexford, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in joint or tendon inflammation of the finger/wrist/hand + 2 more ·
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A Pittsburgh native, Dr. Mullen earned his bachelor's degree with honors at Dartmouth College where he was a member of the Division I football and lacrosse teams. He received his medical degree with honors from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia and completed his orthopedic surgica...Click to read more
Sports Medicine Specialist (Virtual)
4.77
·545 reviews
experience was good but the authorization from insurance for MRI took time ..because of which treatment got delayed - May 20, 2023 by Abhishek G.Click to read more
Hartstown, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in arthritis ·
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Dr. Vinay Chopra is a board certified and fellowship trained Sports Medicine physician who specializes in sports medicine, regenerative medicine, non-surgical orthopedics, concussion management, and aesthetic medicine. He treats a range of conditions including: sprains/strains, fractures, concussion...Click to read more
Podiatrist
5.00
·5 reviews
Great! - Aug 11, 2022 by Michael L.Click to read more
12.5 mi · 5 Greentree Center, South Tower Suite 117, Marlton, NJ 08053
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. D’Angelantonio is an internationally known expert in Foot and Ankle Surgery based right here in New Jersey. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Temple University, followed by his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University as well. He then completed his Doctorate in Foot and Ankle Surge...Click to read more
Surgeon
4.78
·49 reviews
Very caring doctor who listens and explains things in a simple way - Jul 18, 2023 by Christopher D.Click to read more
44 mi · 298 Applegarth Rd, Suite F, Monroe Township, NJ 08831
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in gallbladder removal + 1 more ·
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At this time our practice is not administering COVID-19 vaccination. Please do not book an appointment for COVID vaccination as it will be canceled. Please be advised that if you use an out-of-network insurance, you will be responsible for paying any costs not covered by your plan. Dr. Charles...Click to read more
Physiatrist
5.00
·12 reviews
My visit was great. by LCClick to read more
52 mi · 454 Elizabeth Ave, #240, Somerset, NJ 08873
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in lower back pain + 4 more ·
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Dr. Thomas completed his undergraduate degree at the State University of New York, Binghamton, where he received a B.S. in Psychology. He earned his medical degree (Doctor of Medicine) at Ross University School of Medicine. He completed his internship in Internal Medicine at the Icahn School of Medi...Click to read more
Podiatrist
4.88
·257 reviews
I got all necessary treatment for my twisted ankle right in the office including X-ray! Very happy with doctor Nadia Shah. - Nov 15, 2021 by Vitaliy K.Click to read more
52.5 mi · 172 Summerhill Rd, Ste 2, East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in inflammation or injury of the tendons or ligaments in the leg ·
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Dr. Nadia Shah has completed a 4 year medical training at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. She completed an intense 3 year foot and ankle reconstructive surgical residency at Hoboken University Medical Center. Dr. Shah is Board Certified with American Board of Podiatric Medicine. She is p...Click to read more
Orthopedic Surgeon
4.65
·20 reviews
Very friendly and only a small wait as compared to others - Jul 22, 2021 by Kayla H.Click to read more
53 mi · 1200 US-22, 3rd Fl, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
Read bio
Dr. Scott S. Katzman received his Bachelors of Arts degree from the University of California at San Diego in 1985. He attended medical school at Jefferson Medical College, graduating in 1989. He did his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Arizona from 1990-1994 and became a Board Ce...Click to read more
Orthopedic Surgeon
4.65
·20 reviews
Very friendly and only a small wait as compared to others - Jul 22, 2021 by Kayla H.Click to read more
58 mi · 25 Main St, Edison, NJ 08837
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
Read bio
Dr. Scott S. Katzman received his Bachelors of Arts degree from the University of California at San Diego in 1985. He attended medical school at Jefferson Medical College, graduating in 1989. He did his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Arizona from 1990-1994 and became a Board Ce...Click to read more
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Surgeon in Philadelphia?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Surgeon in Philadelphia, book an appointment, and see the Surgeon within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Surgeons in Philadelphia who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Philadelphia Surgeon who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Philadelphia Surgeon who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Surgeon in Philadelphia?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Surgeons in Philadelphia and book appointments instantly. You can search for Philadelphia Surgeons by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Surgeon in Philadelphia?

When you search for Philadelphia Surgeons on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Surgeons in Philadelphia who match your preferences.


How can I find a Philadelphia Surgeon who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Philadelphia Surgeons with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Surgeon in Philadelphia?

You can use Zocdoc to find Surgeons in Philadelphia who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Surgeon online in Philadelphia?

Surgeons in Philadelphia on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Surgeons who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Surgeon online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Surgeons in Philadelphia who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Surgeon in Philadelphia who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Surgeon who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Surgeon in Philadelphia who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Surgeons in Philadelphia. Many Surgeons offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What is surgery, and who are surgeons?

Surgery entails a doctor making incisions in the human body or physically altering it to treat various illnesses, injuries, and other health issues. It is of two types - open and minimally invasive. During open surgery, doctors assess the insides of your body by making cuts into the skin. Contrarily, minimally invasive surgery involves minor entry points. Additionally, its recovery time is less compared to open surgery.


Meanwhile, surgeons are doctors specializing in assessing and treating conditions that might need operations. They move or change live tissue using a variety of instruments, including scalpels, needles, and probes. Surgeons lead a team of doctors and nurses in the operating room to ensure the smooth completion of surgical procedures.


Education and training of surgeons

Surgeons receive extensive training, starting with an undergraduate degree in pre-med or a science-oriented subject. Next, they clear the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and join a medical school, where they spend four years before graduating with a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine/DO or a Doctor of Medicine/MD degree.


During the first two years of medical school, they complete classroom lessons in anatomy, microbiology, physiology, etc.; during the rest of the program, they receive hands-on training about different fields of medicine by participating in clinical rotations in multiple facilities.


After graduating, surgeons join a residency program. While some surgical residencies take 8-9 years to complete, most programs are 5 years long. Upon completing their residency, they earn the license to practice in the state they intend to do so. To obtain this, they clear a national exam. In some states, passing a state-level exam is mandatory as well.


They can then practice as a general surgeon or complete a fellowship to specialize in a specific surgical domain. Finally, many surgeons earn certification from the American Board of Surgery (ABS). While it is not compulsory, getting ABS' acknowledgment helps create better employment opportunities.


What to expect from a surgery?

Surgery has three stages of care - preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative. During the preoperative stage, your doctor will check if you are ready for the procedure. While this stage is usually brief, it can extend if you need to lose weight or undergo medical tests before surgery.

The intraoperative stage refers to the surgery itself. Based on the nature and severity of your condition, your surgeon can perform one or more of the following procedures:

  • Ablation: Targeted destruction of tumors or tissues using electricity, chemicals, etc.
  • Angioplasty: Opening up a narrowed blood vessel
  • Arthrodesis: Surgically connecting bones so they can grow together
  • Debridement: Removing dead tissue
  • Grafts: Placing tissue from one part of your body to another
  • Ligation: Tying off ducts, tubes, or blood vessels 
  • Prostheses: Using artificial devices to replace body parts like the knees and breasts
  • Reduction: Correcting the position of a body part, like bone or cartilage, by realigning it
  • Resection: Partially removing an organ
  • Transplantation: Transferring donated tissue or organs from a human

During the postoperative period, your surgeon will manage any surgery complications. They would also review and discuss any favorable or otherwise findings with you. Finally, they will ensure long-term follow-up for ongoing post-surgical concerns.


What are some common surgical specialties?

A general surgeon can perform a broad spectrum of surgeries affecting most body parts. However, since surgery is a vast medical field, surgeons often specialize in a specific condition or technique by embarking on additional training. Common surgical specialties include:

  • Cardiothoracic surgery: Concerns treating the heart and organs located in the chest
  • Colorectal surgery: Involves medical conditions affecting any part of the intestines
  • Neurosurgery: Focuses on illnesses of the brain and nervous system
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery: Concerns the head, face, neck, and jaws
  • Orthopedic surgery: Helps treat issues of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, muscles, associated nerves, arteries, and overlying skin)
  • Pediatric surgery: Focuses on the treatment of newborns, children, and teenagers
  • Plastic surgery: Involves cosmetic procedures and procedures that help repair and reconstruct the body
  • Vascular surgery: Concerns treating medical conditions affecting the circulatory system


How to prepare for a surgery?

All surgical procedures, even outpatient procedures, require certain preparation. If you have surgery planned, your surgeon will discuss in advance how you should prepare yourself based on your specific diagnosis and the seriousness of your condition. Depending on your operation, you may be admitted before or will have to stay in the hospital after your surgery to recover. If you wish to know about surgery alternatives, you may also get a second opinion from another surgeon near you. 

While you will be given specific guidelines by your healthcare providers, here are some common do's and dont's that you can follow before undergoing your operation: 

  • Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol before surgery. It will help reduce the risk of respiratory and anesthesia complications after your operation. If you have trouble quitting, you can speak to your primary care provider about nicotine replacements and cessation programs. 
  • Follow your doctor's instructions on what to eat and drink before your surgery. Some patients may need to fast a few hours before surgery. 
  • If you are taking medications or supplements, do not forget to mention them to your doctor and consume only those dosages instructed by your surgeon or anesthesiologist. In some cases, medications need to be stopped in order to make the surgery safer. For example, blood thinners and aspirin can cause too much bleeding. Ask your doctor which supplements can be taken before your procedure. Some may potentially raise the chance of heart problems or bleeding. Others can interfere with your medication or affect the longevity of anesthesia you get on the day of. It may lead to unexpected side effects. Additionally, if you are taking medication for another chronic health problem, remember to refill your prescription.
  • If you have asthma, bring your inhaler and take it if your surgeon has instructed you to before your surgery. 
  • You may have a preoperative physical exam, where your surgical team determines whether you are fit to undergo anesthesia and surgery. It will help your team identify any issues or complications that may happen and that they have to prepare for. This is why you should know your entire medical history and inform your surgical and anesthesia team about any pre-existing conditions. You may also be asked to complete some tests like blood tests, urinary tests, EKG, and X-rays.  
  • Ask your doctor about visitor guidelines and the time you should arrive for surgery. Before your procedure, a nurse or your surgeon will contact you to give you information about how many people can visit you after your procedure. 
  • Make lifestyle changes. If your surgery has been planned well in advance, try to stay as active as possible, get adequate sleep, and incorporate healthy foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat into your diet. People with healthy habits can handle surgery and recover better with fewer complications and less pain. Your surgeon may ask you to manage your weight.
  • Remove or avoid wearing nail polish, gels, or wraps before your procedure. This will help your surgical team monitor your oxygen levels accurately. Also, avoid creams, lotions, and deodorants. You may be given a special kind of soap to bathe with. You should follow any preoperative instructions given regarding shaving body hair at the surgery site. 
  • You may also be asked to remove your contact lenses and all your non-permanent dental work, such as dentures, before your operation. If you have prosthetics, you should inform your medical team about it. 
  • Remember to leave your valuables and jewelry (including body piercings) at home or hand them over to your family member before your procedure. 
  • Bring loose-fitting and comfortable clothing and shoes or slippers for an easy recovery.
  • Ask your doctor about all the costs of surgery so that no bills come to you as a surprise after your procedure. It's also necessary to contact your health insurance company to learn which services and products are covered by your policy and what your out-of-pocket costs will be. 


How to deal with surgical anxiety?

Surgical anxiety is normal. It can stem from various reasons, such as the fear of the unknown, unpleasant surgeries in the past, and concerns about body alteration. Some procedures, like prostate surgery, can also affect your self-esteem, further contributing to anxiety.


Listed below are some tips to manage surgical anxiety:

  • Talk to your surgeon: Be honest with your doctor if they suggest surgery. Tell them about your fears and if you have had bad experiences. Once they know the reason for your anxiety, they can offer reassurance and ensure the process is comfortable. They can also prescribe anti-anxiety medications and/or antidepressants to calm your mind during the procedure.
  • Ensure you have all the information: Ask your surgeon questions or clarifications about your procedure, and also read up about your condition, symptoms, and treatment options. A thorough understanding of why the procedure is necessary and how it can help can relieve you.
  • Explore ways to alleviate your anxiety: Alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, meditation, and herbal supplements, can help manage your stress. Before resorting to such methods, check with your doctor to see if the treatment suits you and will not hamper the surgery.

Find the best surgeons near you in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Surgery, a crucial part of the treatment plan for various diseases and injuries, can be life-saving, so seeing a surgeon best suited to your concerns is essential. While finding the right general surgeon or specialist can be challenging, Zocdoc makes the process easy for you!


First, visit the Zocdoc website and create an account. Next, enter your location, the doctor's specialty you want to see, and your preferred appointment date and time. The website will present a list of all healthcare providers matching your criteria. Zocdoc also allows you to filter the search results according to the doctor's gender, the languages they speak, and whether or not they treat children.


On Zocdoc, every doctor has a unique profile containing details about their education, expertise, certifications, etc. These profiles also include ratings and reviews from past patients, equipping you with all the information you need to make a well-informed choice.


Zocdoc helps you search for in-network surgeons in your area. Simply select your insurance carrier and plan from the drop-down menu on the Zocdoc website. If you happen to have multiple insurance plans (for medical, dental, or vision), you can add all of them to your Zocdoc account. Mention your secondary carrier and plan for your selected provider in your notes in the last step of the booking process. In case your provider uses Zocdoc's intake forms, you can add secondary insurance while filling out forms online. For more insurance-related information, you can access Zocdoc's patient health center. Note that you can book an appointment with only one insurance plan at a time. 


You can book both in-person and online sessions with a surgeon near you via Zocdoc. While browsing the list of surgeons in Philadelphia, look for a purple video icon. The presence of the icon beside the name of a doctor indicates they offer virtual consultations. 


All bookings made on Zocdoc are 100% free, fast, and safe.


Plastic surgery-related statistics for the US

According to a report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, surgeons performed around 1,498,361 cosmetic surgeries in 2022, reflecting around a 19% increase from the number of cosmetic surgeries in 2019 (≈1,255,228). The most common surgeries focused on the body - liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and arm and lower body. Around 576,485 such surgeries took place in 2022, almost a 25% rise from 2019. Further, compared to 2019, the number of cosmetic surgeries for the face (≈346,384) increased by nearly 18%, and the number of facelift procedures increased by approximately 8%.


Sources 

WebMD[1]

Verywell Health[1]

Verywell Health[2]

American Society of Plastic Surgeons

MSD Manuals

Mayo Clinic Health System

Cleveland Clinic

American Society of Anesthesiologists

Johns Hopkins Medicine[1]

Johns Hopkins Medicine[2]

Stanford Health Care

WebMD[2]

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

Zocdoc›Surgeons›Philadelphia, PA