The short answer
A second opinion is sensible before any big planned operation, when you have been offered something that cannot be undone such as removing the womb, when the reason for surgery is not clear to you, or when you have been given options and cannot choose. It is not a reason to delay an emergency. Bring your results and the actual scan images, ask the same questions of both surgeons, and a good surgeon will not be offended.
Book a myomectomy assessment, from ₦1,000,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
When a second opinion is worth it
Most people only meet one surgeon before an operation. That is fine for a simple operation with a clear reason. For bigger decisions, a second look can confirm the plan or show you an option you did not know about.
- A major operation such as a hysterectomy, joint replacement, spine surgery or thyroid surgery
- An operation that cannot be reversed, especially one that affects fertility
- You have been offered surgery, but nobody has explained other treatments
- You have been told the operation is urgent, but you feel well and nothing has changed
- A suspected cancer, where the type of operation matters a great deal
- Two doctors have already told you different things
When not to wait
Some problems need surgery quickly, and looking for another opinion can be dangerous. Go to an emergency department, not a clinic appointment, for:
- Severe tummy pain, especially low on the right side, with fever or vomiting
- A hernia that has become hard, very painful and will not go back in
- Heavy bleeding that will not stop
- Not being able to pass urine at all
- Any injury with a bone poking through the skin
What to bring
The second surgeon needs the same information as the first. Bring the actual images of any scan or X-ray, on a CD or a download link, not just the written report. Bring blood results, previous operation notes, biopsy results and your medicine list. Write down what the first surgeon told you and what they recommended.
Questions that make two opinions comparable
Ask both surgeons the same questions and write down the answers:
- What exactly is wrong, and how sure are you?
- What happens if I do nothing, or wait?
- What are the other options, including medicines or a smaller procedure?
- Why do you recommend this operation for me?
- What are the main risks for someone like me?
- What will recovery look like, and when can I usually return to work?
- Will this affect my ability to have children?
If the two opinions differ
Different surgeons sometimes recommend different things, and both can be reasonable. Ask each one to explain why they disagree with the other. Often the difference is about timing or about how much you value one outcome, such as keeping your womb, over another, such as avoiding a second operation later. That is a decision you are entitled to make with full information.
On Mezo you can book an assessment with an MDCN-verified surgeon in the relevant specialty. Bring the first surgeon's findings and your scans.
What it costs on Mezo
Two units of blood cross-matched and held are included.
Common questions
Will my doctor be angry if I get a second opinion?
A good surgeon expects patients to want to be sure before a big operation. You do not need permission, though asking for copies of your results and scans is easier if you are open about it.
I was told I need a hysterectomy for fibroids. Is there another option?
Often, yes. Depending on the size, number and position of the fibroids and whether you want children, myomectomy, medicines or other procedures may be options. A gynaecologist can explain which suit you.
Do I need to repeat all my scans?
Not always. If the images are recent and good quality, a second surgeon can often use them. Bring the actual images, not only the report.
How much is a second opinion on Mezo?
You book the assessment for the treatment you have been offered. For example, myomectomy is from ₦1,000,000, and the written all-in quote follows the assessment if you decide to go ahead.
The procedures
Related health guides
More patient guides
Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Shared decision making. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 22 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.