Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I have an appointment?
We have a specialist Consultant Surgeon available every weekday, so it can usually be within 24 hours of requesting the appointment. In some cases it may be possible to have a same day appointment.
Is the procedure done laparascopically?
No all our procedures are through a 3 inch incision along the groin crease (for Gilmore’s Groin and inguinal hernias)
Will I have pain?
Yes, although the severity depends on the patient. We send you home with adequate pain relief so you feel comfortable enough to complete the rehabilitation exercises from the first day.
How long is it before I'm back playing my sport?
For a Professional athlete we would expect you should be back in 4 weeks. For amateur athletes we would expect you to be back playing sport in about 6 weeks.
Are my stitches dissolvable?
Yes, all stitches are dissolvable.
Can I fly after surgery?
Yes you can fly about 1 week after surgery but you need to make sure you aren't lifting any heavy luggage.
Will the Gilmore’s Groin or Hernia occur again?
In a very small number of patients the Gilmore’s Groin or hernia this can happen.
Do I need to come in to have my wound checked?
No, we ask that you remove the waterproof dressing after 3 days, leave the steri-strips on the wound for 10 - 14 days after which they can be removed. We bring all patients back for a consultation one month after surgery to ensure everything is healing well and you are well on the road to recovery. However if are concerned you can contact the nurses for advice.
When can I drive again?
You can drive in roughly 7-10 days post-operatively as long as you are comfortable and pain free. We suggest that you speak with your insurance company to get their policy on this to ensure that you do not invalidate your insurance.
When can I have sexual intercourse post op?
For hernia patients, gentle sexual intercourse is okay from week 2 post operatively and week 3 for Gilmore’s Groin patients.
Which consultant will I see?
There are 2 Consultant Surgeons in the team who are able to offer all services. However, if you wish to see a specific Consultant please mention this when booking, although this may lead to a small delay in your initial appointment.
Do you contact my GP?
Yes. We will inform your GP and any other relevant specialists, e.g. physio
I feel anxious about the appointment.
We understand how anxious and sometimes embarrassed you may feel about your appointment, but our fully trained staff aim to make your visit as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Please do not hesitate to tell the Consultant or Nurse if you are overly concerned. They will be pleased to answer your questions and put your mind at rest.
What happens next?
Should surgery be required this can usually be scheduled within three to five days of the decision being made, however, in some cases it can be quicker. If you don't need surgery, any follow-up treatment will be explained to you.
How much does it cost?
The costs for consultations vary from £185 to £400 for a first consultation or second opinion, and £130 to £160 for follow-up consultations. There are additional charges for any investigations or diagnostic tests. Charges are routinely covered in full by all medical insurers, subject to individual policy benefit limits, restrictions and excesses.
If you require surgery, you will be given an estimate of the Consultant Surgeons fees so that you can check your level of cover with your insurer, as a standard charge is made for each operation and insurers have different payment levels.
If you are not covered by medical insurance we offer all-inclusive packages for surgery. For more information on charges please contact us on 0207 563 1234.
If you are not covered by medical insurance we offer all-inclusive packages for surgery. For more information on charges please contact us on 0207 563 1234.
How do I get further information on The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic?
Do not hesitate to call us on 0207 563 1234 and you will be directed to the most appropriate person to answer your enquiry.
How do I make an appointment?
Simply call 0207 563 1234, Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm (5.30 pm on Fridays). You will need a referral letter from your GP or other specialist to see the Consultant if you are expecting your medical insurer to pay. Please bring this with you to your first appointment.
Are you regulated?
The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic is a division of More Surgical Services Ltd which is registered with the Healthcare Commission and subject to their audit process. Internally we are managed by a Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) who ensure that all regulatory matters are kept up to date and manage the conduct of the Consultants with admitting rights to 108 Harley Street. There are also regular team meetings that deal with both ongoing professional education and case management.