Getting a Second Opinion

Asking for a second opinion isn’t rude or disrespectful — it means you take your health seriously. On this page, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about this process so that you can be as informed as possible when planning for your surgery.

FAQ

Why is a second opinion so important?

A second opinion increases your knowledge about your procedure and condition, which empowers you to make better decisions about your care. For example, your first surgeon may recommend traditional open back surgery, while your second one believes that a minimally-invasive approach is in your best interest. The discrepancy doesn’t mean that one is right and one is wrong – it just means that there are different ways to handle your pain. A second opinion gives you all the facts so that you can select the treatment plan that is aligned with your goals and preferences.

Speak With A Specialist

Visit one of our New York locations.

WHEN TO GET A SECOND OPINION

At Long Island Spine Specialists, we believe in second opinions for all of our patients.

However, it’s most important when:

Your personal goals are vastly different from your surgeon’s
You want to find out if there are alternatives to the recommended surgery
You aren’t comfortable with the first physician and/or their recommendations
An initial procedure was unsuccessful and a second surgery is being recommended
You simply want to confirm that the surgery is the best approach for your circumstances

HOW TO HANDLE THE SECOND SURGEON INTERVIEW

When meeting with a spine surgeon for your second opinion, you’ll want to bring a list of questions and an open mind.

The most common questions include:

The surgeon’s experience with the type of back surgery you require
The consequences if you don’t move forward with surgery
The next steps if the surgery is unsuccessful
Potential alternatives to the procedure
Risks and complications

Practice Policy Update Regarding COVID-19

Dear Patients:

Our patients, employees and family are our top priority at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

We ask you to not visit any of our locations if you have symptoms such as fever, sneezing, coughing and possible shortness of breath.

Please cancel your appointment and re-schedule once you are feeling better and are no longer suffering with symptoms.

Only non-symptomatic patients will be seen. No exceptions.

Accompanying family members – including children – are asked to remain in the waiting area and will not be allowed to enter the exam rooms.

During this time of high concern regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) we are taking extra precautions to maintain the highest possible standards of safety and cleanliness. Please be advised that we are carefully following recommendations from both the CDC and WHO and are here to help guide you through this time if needed.

Some steps we are taking to keeping safe:

We know how important cleanliness is and always maintain the highest standards of cleanliness. To further offer you peace of mind, we have increased the frequency of the cleaning of our office.

Rest assured that hand washing is strictly followed. Hand sanitizer is available to all staff and patients.

Additionally, if you have recently traveled to a country with high rates of the coronavirus or have been on a cruise, please reschedule your visit for at least 14 days from your return date. We will gladly accommodate your needs to reschedule. At that time, a telehealth interface can be arranged if necessary.

Find up-to-date and accurate information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and feel free to reach out with questions.

- Your team at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about Long Island Spine Specialists – and to discover how we can relieve your pain and help you find an improved quality of life – please contact our office today and schedule a consultation.

FAQ