Advanced Surgery Refresh Staging

Surgery designed with care.
Owned by you.

The best surgeries don't happen by chance. When you feel involved every step of the way, that's intentional. When everything is meticulously planned with you, that's owning it. When you feel like you're getting all the smarts and all the hearts, that's by design.

Request An Appointment

Advanced surgery for west central Indiana.

At Hendricks Regional Health, our experienced surgeons and surgical teams provide advanced care across a wide range of specialties, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures. Your care is supported by state-of-the-art technology and a team that helps you understand what comes next, from your first consultation through recovery.

Choose a Specialty

Robotic precision with a personal plan.

Robotic-assisted surgery gives our surgeons enhanced precision through a minimally invasive approach. When it’s right for your procedure, it may help reduce pain and support a faster recovery. The technology doesn’t replace your surgeon. It extends their hands and expertise as they carry out a care plan designed around you. Your care team will always talk with you about what fits your situation. Learn more >

What to Expect

Every surgery is different, but you should never feel unsure about what comes next. At Hendricks Regional Health, your care team will help you understand how to prepare, what will happen the day of your procedure and how to plan for recovery.

Your exact experience will depend on your surgery, your health needs and your care plan. Your team will explain what applies to you, answer questions along the way and help you feel more ready for each step.

Before Surgery

Your team will review your health history, answer questions and help you understand any steps you need to take before your procedure.

Day of Surgery

When you arrive, your care team will guide you through check-in, preparation and what to expect before your procedure begins.

Recovery

Your team will monitor your recovery, talk through your next steps and provide instructions for healing at home or continuing care with us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Surgery at Hendricks

  • What kinds of conditions do Hendricks surgeons treat?

    Our surgeons provide care for a wide range of conditions, from common procedures to complex surgical needs. Our surgical specialties are listed below with examples of conditions treated:

    • General Surgery (Hernia Repair, Gallbladder Disease, Colon Surgery, Thyroid Surgery)
    • Ear, Nose, Throat (Sinus Surgery, Tonsillectomy, Nasal Polyps Removal, Hearing Loss Surgery, Inspire Sleep Therapy)
    • Orthopedics (Joint Replacement, Fracture Repair, Arthroscopy, Foot & Ankle Surgery, Spine Surgery)
    • Ophthalmology (Cataract Surgery, Glaucoma Treatment, Retinal Surgery)
    • Gynecology (Hysterectomy, Endometriosis Surgery, Ovarian Cyst Removal, Fibroid Removal)
    • Gastroenterology (Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, Polyp Removal)
    • Plastic Surgery (Breast Surgery, Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, Breast Reconstruction, Breast Reduction, Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck, Blepharoplasty / Eyelid surgery)
    • Urogynecology (Pelvic organ prolapse, Urinary Incontinence, Fecal incontinence)
  • How will my pain be managed after surgery?

    After surgery, your care team will work closely with you to keep you as comfortable as possible. Pain is managed using a personalized approach that may include medications, ice, positioning, movement and other techniques based on your procedure and needs. We’ll regularly ask about your pain level and adjust your treatment as needed. Managing pain effectively can help you rest, move safely and recover more comfortably. We ask our patients to let us know if your pain is not well controlled or if you have concerns about your medications.

  • Will I need someone to drive me home after surgery?

    If you receive anesthesia or sedation, you will likely need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for a period of time after surgery. Because medications can temporarily affect your alertness, judgment and reaction time, it is not safe to drive yourself. Your care team will review your discharge instructions and transportation needs before your procedure.

  • Why must I refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to surgery?

    You’ll be asked not to eat or drink before surgery because anesthesia can slow your body’s natural reflexes. If food or liquid remains in your stomach, it could enter your lungs during the procedure and cause serious complications. Following the fasting instructions provided by your care team helps keep you safe and reduces the risk of delays or cancellation of your surgery. If you have questions about when to stop eating or drinking, please contact your surgical team before your procedure.

  • How long does anesthesia last?

    Anesthesia wears off at different rates depending on the type used and your procedure. Most patients begin waking up within minutes to a few hours after surgery, but drowsiness, fatigue, and mild forgetfulness can last the rest of the day. Some effects of general anesthesia may linger for 24 hours or longer. Because every patient is unique, your anesthesia plan is designed around your health history, procedure, and recovery needs. Your care team will explain what to expect before and after surgery.

  • How long will recovery take?

    Recovery time varies based on your procedure, overall health, and how your body heals. Some patients return to normal activities within days, while others may need several weeks or longer. Minimally invasive procedures often allow for a faster recovery. Because no two patients are alike, your recovery plan is designed around your specific needs, goals, and lifestyle. Your surgeon will provide personalized guidance on returning to work, exercise, driving, and other daily activities.

  • Who controls the surgical robot during robotic surgery?

    Your surgeon is always in complete control of the robotic system. During robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon uses a console to guide every movement of the robotic instruments. The robot does not make decisions or operate independently. Instead, it serves as a highly advanced tool that helps your surgeon perform procedures with enhanced precision, flexibility and visualization.

  • Is robotic surgery a safer option than traditional surgery?

    Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive approach that can offer benefits such as smaller incisions, less pain, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery for some procedures. However, the best surgical approach depends on your condition, health history, and treatment goals. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, your surgeon will recommend the option that is best suited to your needs. The goal is always the same: delivering safe, effective care designed around you.

  • How do Hendricks care teams support me before and after surgery?

    Our team supports you every step of the way. Before surgery, we provide preoperative testing, education and instructions to help you prepare and feel confident about your procedure. After surgery, your care team monitors your recovery, manages discomfort, answers questions and provides clear guidance for healing at home. We work closely with you and your family to help ensure a safe, comfortable experience.

  • What is a checklist of questions I should bring to my surgery consultation?

    Before your surgery consultation, consider bringing a list of questions about the procedure, recovery, and what to expect. Helpful questions include:

    • What are the benefits and risks of surgery?
    • Are there alternatives?
    • How should I prepare?
    • What will recovery be like, and when can I return to normal activities?
    • How will pain be managed?
    • What medications should I stop taking beforehand?
    • Will I need help at home after surgery?

    Writing down your questions in advance and taking notes during the visit can help you feel informed, prepared, and confident in your care plan.

  • What should I bring with me on surgery day?

    Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications, and any paperwork requested by your care team. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and leave valuables at home. If you're receiving anesthesia or sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you if instructed. Taking these simple steps helps your care team focus on what matters most: providing a smooth, personalized surgical experience designed around your care and comfort.

  • Who will be monitoring me during surgery?

    You will be cared for by a dedicated surgical team that includes your surgeon, anesthesia professional and specially trained nurses and surgical staff. Throughout your procedure, team members continuously monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels and other vital signs. Their focus is on your safety, comfort and well-being from the beginning of surgery through recovery.

A plan for surgery and life after it.

Don came to Hendricks after years of knee pain made everyday movement harder. His care team helped him understand what to expect before bilateral knee replacement, then supported his path back to travel, kayaking and the community work he loves

Watch Don’s Story

Nothing about surgery should feel left to chance.

Connect with a care team that helps you understand your options, your next steps and the plan designed around you. Our surgical teams provide care across a wide range of specialties, from general surgery and orthopedics to gynecology, gastroenterology and more.

Request An Appointment