General anaesthetic

A general anaesthetic is used to make you unconscious so you will not feel pain, move or be aware during surgery. Risks include nausea or tiredness.

Read more

Peripheral nerve block (lower limb)

A peripheral lower limb nerve block can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after the operation.

Read more

Epidural anaesthetic

An epidural anaesthetic can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after an operation or procedure.

Read more

Spinal anaesthetic

A spinal anaesthetic can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after an operation or procedure.

Read more

Preparing for surgery

It's best to be fully prepared for any surgery. Ask your doctor questions so you know exactly why you are having the operation and the risks involved.

Read more

Peripheral nerve block (upper limb)

A peripheral upper limb nerve block can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after the operation.

Read more

Fasting for medical tests

For some medical tests, fasting may be required for a period of time beforehand. Learn more about different tests and when fasting may be necessary.

Read more

Rhinoplasty (nose job)

Rhinoplasty (often called a 'nose job') is surgery to repair or reshape your nose. Learn about what to consider before having a nose job.

Read more

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

Abdominoplasty (also called a 'tummy tuck') is cosmetic surgery to alter the shape of your abdomen. Read about the procedure and the questions to ask.

Read more

Facelift

A facelift is a form of cosmetic surgery designed to change your facial appearance by reducing lines and wrinkles. Find out what a facelift involves.

Read more

General anaesthetic (child)

A general anaesthetic is usually a safe and effective way for your child to have an operation or procedure. Most children do not have any problems.

Read more

Breast augmentation (breast implants)

Women may have breast implant surgery for cosmetic or medical reasons. Learn about breast implants and some questions to ask your doctor.

Read more

Salpingectomy

Salpingectomy is the removal of one or both fallopian tubes. It can be done to treat conditions such as cancer, endometriosis or ectopic pregnancy.

Read more

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a treatment for some severe mental health conditions. Find out about ECT, when it’s used and side effects here.

Read more

Hair transplant

Hair transplantation is a treatment option for baldness. It’s a surgery which transfers hair from where it is thicker to hairless areas of the scalp.

Read more

Trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE)

A trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is usually a safe and effective way of finding out more about a problem in your heart chambers and heart valves.

Read more

The role of a neurosurgeon

Neurosurgeons (brain surgeons) specialise in the surgical treatment and management of conditions that affect the brain, spine and nervous system.

Read more

Laparoscopy

A laparoscopy is a type of keyhole surgery usually performed in the abdominal (belly) area. Learn more about this minimally invasive surgery.

Read more

Sickle cell anaemia

Sickle cell anaemia is the most common and serious form of sickle cell disease. Read more about sickle cell anaemia and how it is treated.

Read more

The role of a urologist

Urologists are surgeons who specialise in treating problems of the kidneys, bladder, urethra and adrenal glands in men, women and children.

Read more

Amputation

The loss of a limb can be life-changing, but support is available. Read all about amputation, including preparation, recovery and rehabilitation.

Read more

The role of an oncologist

Oncologists identify, diagnose and treat people with cancer or suspected cancer. 3 main types include surgical, medical and radiation oncologists.

Read more

Mastectomy — breast cancer treatment or prevention

A mastectomy is an operation to remove your breast, usually to treat breast cancer. Learn how to prepare and what to expect if you need this surgery.

Read more

Oophorectomy

Oophorectomy is the surgical removal of one or both ovaries, usually performed to treat an ovarian cyst, ovarian cancer or other ovary-related problem.

Read more

The role of a ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists are eye doctors or surgeons who specialise in assessment diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. Learn what an ophthalmologist does.

Read more

Local anaesthetic

A local anaesthetic temporarily numbs a part of your body. Here's what you should know about 'having a local' and questions to ask your doctor.

Read more

Gender affirming surgery

Gender affirming surgery helps people with gender incongruence medically affirm their gender. Learn more about these types of surgeries here.

Read more

Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure. It’s used to reshape your body by removing fat. You can read more about liposuction here.

Read more

Maternity care in Australia

Explore pregnancy care options in Australia. Learn about antenatal care, birth settings, and costs to make the best choices for you and your baby.

Read more