Choosing the right urological surgeon is an important step when planning treatment for conditions such as erectile dysfunction, prostate concerns, or urinary issues. Patients often have questions about what to look for and how to make an informed decision. Understanding a surgeon’s qualifications, areas of experience, and approach to patient care can help guide the selection process. A well-informed choice supports clearer communication, realistic expectations, and treatment that aligns with individual needs.
Check Their Qualifications and Registration
Before choosing a surgeon, it’s important to check that they are properly qualified and registered to practise in Australia. Surgeons who hold a Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Urology have completed specialist training and met the standards required in this field. This qualification shows they have completed years of medical and surgical education specific to urological care.
To check a surgeon’s registration and qualifications, patients can visit the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) website. This register shows if the surgeon is allowed to practise, what they are qualified in, and if there are any limits on their work. Checking this information helps patients feel more confident that the surgeon meets the right standards.
Making sure the surgeon is properly qualified is an important first step. It helps patients feel more at ease about the care they will receive. A qualified surgeon has the training to manage both simple and more complex urological procedures.
Consider Their Experience with Specific Conditions
Urological surgeons may have different areas of focus within their field. While all are trained in general urology, some may see more patients for prostate conditions, while others regularly manage erectile dysfunction or perform procedures like penile implants. Because of this, patients should ask how often the surgeon treats or manages the condition they are seeking care for.
If a surgeon has experience with a certain condition, they are more likely to understand the symptoms, treatment options, and possible challenges. For example, patients a penile implant for erectile dysfunction may prefer a surgeon who has treated others with similar concerns. This can help ensure the advice and treatment plan are based on real experience and suited to the patient’s needs.
During the consultation, patients can ask how long the surgeon has been performing the procedure, how often they do it, and whether they have treated similar cases. Knowing this information can give a better idea of the surgeon’s experience. It also helps patients feel more comfortable and informed when making a decision about their care.
Look at Their Approach to Consultation and Care
The way a surgeon communicates can significantly influence the overall patient experience. In the initial consultation, questions should be taken seriously, and explanations should be clear and easy to follow. A surgeon who takes time to listen and explain options carefully shows attention to individual concerns.
In addition, the consultation process should be detailed and include a review of the patient’s current symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. Getting all this important information helps determine what tests or treatments may be appropriate for the patient. Most importantly, patients should be given enough time to ask questions and discuss any concerns about the condition or possible treatments.
Clear and respectful communication supports better understanding and trust. It also allows for shared planning of next steps. If the consultation feels rushed or unclear, seeking a second opinion may help in making a more confident decision.
Ask About Treatment Options and Suitability
It is important to keep in mind that each patient’s case is different. Therefore, the treatment should reflect their individual health, symptoms, and personal preferences. A good surgeon will take the time to explain the available options and discuss which ones may be suitable. Depending on the patient’s specific concerns, the surgeon may recommend suitable treatment options like medication, or surgery such as a penile implant.
Moreover, the surgeon should explain all important information, like what each treatment involves, including recovery time, risks, and what outcomes may be expected. This helps patients come up with realistic expectations about the treatment and allows them to make an informed decision. Patients should feel confident that the advice they’re receiving is based on their health needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Asking about treatment options can show whether the surgeon considers different approaches and listens to patient concerns. Open discussion about goals, expectations, and preferences helps guide a treatment plan that matches the patient’s needs. This kind of conversation supports informed and thoughtful decision-making.
Review Availability for Ongoing Care
Ongoing care is an important part of any treatment plan. After a procedure or therapy, follow-up visits may be needed to assess the patient’s healing progress, adjust the treatment plan, or discuss any questions or concerns. When choosing a surgeon, patients should ask how follow-up care is handled and what support is available if they have questions after their appointment.
Patients may want to ask if the surgeon will handle follow-up visits or if another team member will be involved. It is also helpful to know how to get in touch if questions or concerns come up between appointments. Having a clear plan for follow-up care can make it easier to manage recovery and know what to expect after treatment.
Ongoing care plays an important role, especially for conditions that require long-term support. Clear communication and an organised follow-up plan can help patients feel well-informed throughout their treatment. This approach supports consistency and helps address questions or changes as they come up.
Why Choose Dr Katelaris for Urology Surgery in Sydney and North Shore
Dr Phillip Katelaris is a urological surgeon with decades of experience treating erectile dysfunction, including penile implant procedures. He operates in Sydney, with clinics in Hornsby, Castle Hill, and St Leonards—providing care across the North Shore. His training in both Australia and Germany, along with his background in robotic techniques, allows for a thorough and considered approach to each procedure. At Katelaris Urology, he combines his surgical experience with careful planning to ensure patients receive treatment that is appropriate for their individual needs.
Patients looking for a urological surgeon in Sydney and North Shore, as well as from other regions or overseas, are often encouraged to consider factors such as qualifications, experience, and communication style. Dr Katelaris is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), and his work covers a wide range of urological conditions. He explains treatment options clearly and takes the time to assess whether a procedure is suitable based on the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals.
At Katelaris Urology in Sydney and North Shore, patients are offered care that includes assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning in one setting. Whether considering penile implants or other urological treatments, the focus is on providing evidence-based advice. Dr Katelaris supports patients from consultation through to recovery, ensuring that each step is clearly explained and tailored to the individual’s situation.
