Top 25 General Surgeons Across the US
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What is a General Surgeon?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A general surgeon is a physician who specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases affecting the abdomen, digestive tract, skin, soft tissues, breast, thyroid, and other organs. These highly trained specialists perform both emergency and elective surgeries, ranging from minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures to complex open operations. General surgeons are often the first surgical specialists called upon for acute conditions like appendicitis, trauma, and bowel obstructions, and they play a critical role in cancer treatment, hernia repair, and endocrine surgery.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a general surgeon requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 5 years of general surgery residency training
- Total of 9+ years of training beyond a bachelor's degree
- Some general surgeons pursue additional 1-2 year fellowships in subspecialties like surgical oncology, trauma surgery, minimally invasive surgery, or acute care surgery
- Extensive hands-on surgical training with thousands of procedures performed during residency
Board Certification: American Board of Surgery (ABS) in General Surgery. The certification requires passing both a written qualifying exam and an oral certifying exam after completing an accredited residency program. Board certification must be maintained through ongoing education, practice assessments, and periodic recertification every 10 years.
When Should You See a General Surgeon?
You should consider seeing a general surgeon if:
- You have been diagnosed with appendicitis, gallstones, or a hernia that requires surgical treatment
- You have a breast lump or abnormality that needs biopsy or surgical removal
- You have a thyroid nodule or goiter that requires surgical evaluation or treatment
- You have been diagnosed with colon cancer or other gastrointestinal malignancies
- You have severe abdominal pain that may require emergency surgery
- You have skin or soft tissue tumors, cysts, or growths that need surgical removal
- You have hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other anorectal conditions requiring surgery
- You have an abdominal wall defect or diastasis recti needing repair
- You need a surgical port or feeding tube placement
- Your primary care doctor or gastroenterologist recommends surgical consultation
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
General Surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that general surgeons help patients manage.
Appendicitis
Inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. If untreated, an inflamed appendix can rupture and cause life-threatening infection. Appendicitis is one of the most common causes of emergency abdominal surgery.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons perform appendectomy, the surgical removal of the appendix, typically using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. Laparoscopic appendectomy involves 3 small incisions, less pain, and faster recovery (usually 1-3 weeks). In cases of rupture or abscess, more extensive surgery may be needed. Early surgical intervention prevents serious complications.
Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease
Hardened deposits (gallstones) in the gallbladder that can cause inflammation, infection, or blockage of the bile ducts. Symptomatic gallbladder disease is one of the most common indications for abdominal surgery, affecting about 10-15% of the adult population.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons perform cholecystectomy, surgical removal of the gallbladder, almost always using laparoscopic techniques. The procedure involves 4 small incisions and most patients go home the same day. Surgeons also manage complications like bile duct stones or gallbladder infections. Living without a gallbladder does not significantly impact digestion for most people.
Hernias (Inguinal, Umbilical, Incisional, Ventral)
Occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Inguinal hernias (groin) are most common in men, while umbilical and incisional hernias occur frequently in both sexes. Hernias can become dangerous if the protruding tissue becomes trapped (incarcerated) or loses blood supply (strangulated).
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons repair hernias using open or laparoscopic techniques, often reinforcing the weak area with surgical mesh. Laparoscopic hernia repair offers less pain and faster recovery. Surgeons evaluate the best approach based on hernia type, size, and patient factors. Emergency surgery is required for strangulated hernias to prevent bowel damage.
Breast Disease and Breast Cancer
General surgeons with breast surgery expertise diagnose and treat benign and malignant breast conditions. While oncological breast surgeons subspecialize in cancer, many general surgeons perform breast biopsies, lumpectomies, and mastectomies, particularly in community settings.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons perform diagnostic breast biopsies (needle or surgical), lumpectomy (removal of tumor with margin of normal tissue), mastectomy (removal of entire breast), and sentinel lymph node biopsy for cancer staging. They work closely with oncologists, radiologists, and plastic surgeons to provide comprehensive breast cancer care.
Thyroid Nodules and Goiter
Abnormal growths or enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck. While most thyroid nodules are benign, some require surgical removal due to cancer risk, symptoms from size, or hormone overproduction. General surgeons with endocrine surgery training regularly perform thyroid operations.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons perform thyroidectomy (partial or total removal of the thyroid gland) for suspicious nodules, confirmed thyroid cancer, large goiters causing symptoms, or hyperthyroidism unresponsive to other treatments. Modern techniques minimize scarring and protect the parathyroid glands and vocal cord nerves.
Colon and Rectal Diseases
General surgeons treat various conditions affecting the colon (large intestine) and rectum, including colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease complications, and bowel obstructions. These range from elective cancer surgeries to emergency procedures for perforation or obstruction.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons perform colectomy (removal of part or all of the colon), often using laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques. They manage colon cancer with oncologic resection, treat diverticulitis complications, repair perforations, relieve obstructions, and create ostomies when needed. Many general surgeons work closely with colorectal surgery subspecialists for complex cases.
Skin and Soft Tissue Tumors
Abnormal growths in the skin, fat, muscle, or connective tissues that may be benign (lipomas, cysts) or malignant (melanoma, sarcomas). General surgeons frequently remove these lesions for diagnosis or treatment.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons excise (surgically remove) skin and soft tissue lesions, ensuring adequate margins for cancer. They perform wide local excision for melanoma, remove lipomas and cysts, and biopsy suspicious lesions. For confirmed cancers, they coordinate with oncologists for comprehensive treatment planning.
Hemorrhoids and Anorectal Conditions
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, bleeding, and itching. General surgeons also treat anal fissures (tears), abscesses, fistulas, and other anorectal conditions when non-surgical treatments fail.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons perform hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal of hemorrhoids), rubber band ligation, and procedures for anal fissures, abscesses, and fistulas. They offer both traditional and newer minimally invasive techniques. Surgical intervention is typically reserved for severe cases unresponsive to conservative treatment.
Acute Abdominal Emergencies
Life-threatening conditions requiring urgent surgical intervention, including bowel obstruction, perforated ulcer, ruptured appendix, acute mesenteric ischemia (blocked blood flow to intestines), and abdominal trauma. General surgeons are often the first specialists called for acute abdominal emergencies.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
General surgeons provide emergency surgical care for acute abdominal conditions. They perform exploratory laparotomy to identify and treat the source of emergency, repair perforated organs, remove dead bowel tissue, relieve obstructions, and control internal bleeding. Rapid surgical intervention is often life-saving in these situations.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. General Surgeons treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified general surgeon for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a general surgeon.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive medical history including current symptoms, previous surgeries, medications, and allergies
- Review of imaging studies (CT scans, ultrasounds) and laboratory results you bring or have performed
- Physical examination focused on the area requiring surgery
- Discussion of your diagnosis and surgical options available
- Explanation of recommended procedure including risks, benefits, and alternatives
- Assessment of your overall health and readiness for surgery
- Scheduling of preoperative testing if surgery is recommended
- Initial consultation typically lasts 30-60 minutes
Diagnosis & Testing
- Physical examination: Palpation of hernias, breast lumps, thyroid nodules, or abdominal areas of concern
- Imaging studies: CT scan for abdominal conditions, ultrasound for gallbladder or thyroid, mammogram for breast issues
- Laboratory tests: Blood work including complete blood count, metabolic panel, coagulation studies
- Endoscopy: Colonoscopy or upper endoscopy for gastrointestinal conditions when appropriate
- Biopsy: Fine needle aspiration or core needle biopsy for suspicious masses
- Pathology review: Examination of tissue samples by pathologists to confirm diagnosis
- Cardiac and pulmonary clearance: For patients with heart or lung conditions before major surgery
Treatment Options
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery: Small incisions, camera-guided surgery with faster recovery for many conditions
- Open surgery: Traditional incisions for complex cases, emergencies, or when laparoscopic approach not suitable
- Robotic-assisted surgery: Advanced laparoscopic technique with enhanced precision for select procedures
- Same-day (ambulatory) surgery: Many procedures performed with discharge home the same day
- Inpatient surgery: Hospital admission for major operations requiring postoperative monitoring
- Preoperative optimization: Managing medical conditions, nutrition, and smoking cessation before elective surgery
- Enhanced recovery protocols: Evidence-based programs to speed recovery and reduce complications
- Postoperative care: Pain management, wound care instructions, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your general surgeon provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right General Surgeon
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a general surgeon.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certified by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) in General Surgery
- Completed accredited 5-year general surgery residency program
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Hospital privileges at accredited surgical facilities
- Fellowship training in relevant subspecialty if applicable (surgical oncology, minimally invasive surgery, trauma)
- Member of professional organizations like American College of Surgeons (ACS) with FACS designation
Important Considerations
- Expertise and volume in your specific procedure - surgeons who perform more operations have better outcomes
- Hospital or surgical center quality and safety record
- Availability of minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) approaches when appropriate
- Accepts your insurance plan and is in-network
- Office location and accessibility for preoperative and postoperative visits
- Clear communication about procedure, risks, recovery expectations, and alternatives
- Availability for urgent issues and emergency coverage arrangements
- Experience treating your specific condition, especially for cancer or complex cases
- Coordination with other specialists (oncologists, gastroenterologists, primary care)
- Patient reviews and outcomes data when available
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple general surgeons before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a general surgeon can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$150-$350
Follow-up Visit
$100-$200
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover medically necessary surgical consultations and procedures
- Specialist copay for surgical consultation typically ranges from $40-$75
- Prior authorization is often required for elective surgical procedures
- Emergency surgeries (appendicitis, strangulated hernia) generally covered without prior authorization
- Hospital-based procedures involve facility fees, surgeon fees, and anesthesia fees
- Out-of-pocket costs depend on deductible, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum
- In-network surgeons and facilities significantly reduce costs for most plans
- High-deductible plans may require substantial payment before insurance coverage begins
- Some insurers require second surgical opinion for certain elective procedures
Medicare Information
Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays for surgery, including surgeon fees, anesthesia, operating room, and hospital care. Medicare Part B covers outpatient surgical procedures and surgeon fees at ambulatory surgery centers. Patients typically pay the Part A deductible for inpatient stays and 20% coinsurance for Part B services after meeting the annual deductible. Medicare Advantage plans may have different cost-sharing structures.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your general surgeon is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your General Surgeon
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a general surgeon.
What is my diagnosis, and why do you recommend surgery rather than non-surgical treatment?
What surgical approach will you use (laparoscopic, open, robotic), and why is that best for my situation?
How many times have you performed this specific procedure, and what are your complication rates?
What are the risks specific to my surgery, and how do you minimize them?
What type of anesthesia will be used, and how long will the procedure take?
Will this be outpatient surgery, or will I need to stay in the hospital? For how long?
What should I expect for pain after surgery, and how will it be managed?
What is the expected recovery time, and when can I return to work and normal activities?
What are the warning signs of complications I should watch for after surgery?
If surgery is elective, what happens if I choose to wait or not have surgery at all?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a general surgeon, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain that prevents you from sitting still or finding a comfortable position - may indicate appendicitis, bowel obstruction, or perforated organ
- Rigid, board-like abdomen with severe pain - suggests peritonitis requiring emergency surgery
- Hernia that becomes hard, extremely painful, and cannot be pushed back in - signs of strangulation requiring immediate surgery
- Vomiting blood or passing significant blood from the rectum - may indicate serious gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain with fever, rapid heartbeat, and confusion - signs of sepsis from intra-abdominal infection
- Abdominal pain following trauma or injury - may indicate internal bleeding or organ damage
- Complete inability to pass gas or have bowel movements with progressive abdominal distension and vomiting - signs of bowel obstruction
- Sudden severe pain in the groin with a known hernia, especially with nausea and vomiting - possible incarcerated or strangulated hernia
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
General Surgeon vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
General Surgeon vs. Colorectal Surgeon
A colorectal surgeon (also called proctologist or colon and rectal surgeon) has additional fellowship training specifically in diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. While general surgeons can perform colon surgery and treat hemorrhoids, colorectal surgeons specialize in complex conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, rectal cancer requiring sphincter preservation, and complicated anorectal problems. For straightforward colon cases, a general surgeon may be appropriate; for complex colorectal conditions, a colorectal surgeon offers subspecialty expertise.
General Surgeon vs. Gastroenterologist
A gastroenterologist is a medical (non-surgical) specialist who diagnoses and treats digestive system diseases using medications and endoscopic procedures. A general surgeon operates on the digestive system when surgery is needed. They often work together - the gastroenterologist may perform a colonoscopy to diagnose colon cancer, then refer to the general surgeon for surgical removal. For gallstones, the gastroenterologist may remove bile duct stones endoscopically while the surgeon removes the gallbladder.
General Surgeon vs. Surgical Oncologist
A surgical oncologist is a surgeon with additional fellowship training focused on cancer surgery. While general surgeons can and do operate on many cancers (breast, thyroid, colon), surgical oncologists specialize in complex cancer operations, unusual tumor types, and may be more involved in research and multidisciplinary cancer care. For common cancers, an experienced general surgeon may provide equivalent care; for rare or complex cancers, a surgical oncologist offers specialized expertise.
General Surgeon vs. Trauma Surgeon
A trauma surgeon (acute care surgeon) has additional fellowship training in treating severely injured patients and surgical emergencies. While general surgeons handle many emergencies, trauma surgeons work primarily in trauma centers managing gunshot wounds, motor vehicle accidents, and other severe injuries. Many general surgeons can provide emergency surgical care; trauma surgeons are specifically trained for the most severe, life-threatening injuries.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about general surgeons is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about general surgeons
What is the difference between a general surgeon and a specialist surgeon?
A general surgeon has comprehensive training to operate on many parts of the body, including the abdomen, digestive tract, breast, thyroid, and soft tissues. Specialist surgeons (such as cardiac surgeons, neurosurgeons, or orthopedic surgeons) focus exclusively on specific organ systems or body regions. General surgeons are trained to handle a wide range of conditions and are often the first surgical specialists consulted for abdominal problems, emergencies, and cancer. For complex cases, general surgeons may work alongside or refer to subspecialist surgeons.
What is laparoscopic surgery, and is it better than open surgery?
Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery uses small incisions and a camera to perform operations, rather than one large incision used in traditional open surgery. Benefits include less pain, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Most gallbladder surgeries, appendectomies, and many hernia repairs are now done laparoscopically. However, not all conditions or patients are suitable for laparoscopic approaches - open surgery may be necessary for complex cases, emergencies, or when visualization is difficult. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
How long is recovery after common general surgery procedures?
Recovery varies by procedure and approach. For laparoscopic appendectomy or cholecystectomy, most patients return to normal activities in 1-2 weeks and work in 1-2 weeks for desk jobs. Laparoscopic hernia repair typically requires 2-4 weeks before returning to heavy lifting. Open abdominal surgeries may require 4-6 weeks or longer for full recovery. Thyroidectomy patients usually recover in 1-2 weeks. Major colon surgery requires 4-8 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific recovery guidelines based on your procedure and individual health factors.
Do I need a referral to see a general surgeon?
It depends on your insurance plan. HMO plans typically require a referral from your primary care physician. PPO plans usually allow you to see specialists directly, though you may pay less with a referral. Medicare does not require referrals for surgeons. Even when not required, a referral from your primary doctor or gastroenterologist helps ensure relevant medical records and test results are shared, making your surgical consultation more efficient.
What should I do to prepare for surgery?
Preparation includes completing required preoperative tests (blood work, EKG, imaging), following instructions about eating and drinking before surgery (typically nothing after midnight), taking or stopping medications as directed, arranging transportation home, and preparing for your recovery at home. If you smoke, stopping at least 2-4 weeks before surgery significantly reduces complication risks. Your surgeon's office will provide detailed instructions specific to your procedure. Attend your preoperative appointment and ask questions about anything unclear.
When should I go to the emergency room for abdominal pain?
Seek emergency care immediately for: sudden, severe abdominal pain; abdominal pain with fever and vomiting; rigid or board-like abdomen; blood in vomit or stool; signs of shock (rapid heartbeat, confusion, lightheadedness); abdominal pain after trauma; severe pain in the lower right abdomen (possible appendicitis); or a hernia that cannot be pushed back in and is painful. For milder or chronic abdominal symptoms, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or request a surgical consultation.
What are the risks of general surgery?
All surgery carries some risks, though serious complications are uncommon with modern techniques. General risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and injury to nearby organs. Specific risks vary by procedure - for example, thyroid surgery carries risks to vocal cord nerves and parathyroid glands. Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks of your procedure, your individual risk factors, and steps taken to minimize complications. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following preoperative and postoperative instructions reduces risks.
How do I know if I need surgery or if my condition can be treated without an operation?
Many conditions initially treated conservatively may eventually require surgery. For example, some hernias can be watched if asymptomatic, while others require prompt repair. Gallstones causing symptoms typically need surgery, but incidentally found stones may not. Your surgeon will evaluate your specific condition, symptoms, overall health, and preferences to recommend whether surgery is necessary, beneficial, or optional. Getting a surgical consultation does not mean you must have surgery - it means getting expert evaluation of your options.
Will I be put to sleep for surgery?
Most general surgery procedures use general anesthesia, where you are completely asleep and feel nothing. Some minor procedures (small skin lesion removals, breast biopsies) can be done with local anesthesia or sedation. The type of anesthesia depends on the procedure, your health, and sometimes your preference. You will meet with an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist before surgery who will review your medical history and discuss the anesthesia plan. They will monitor you throughout surgery and manage your comfort during and after the procedure.
How long will I be in the hospital after surgery?
Many general surgery procedures are now same-day (outpatient) surgeries, meaning you go home the same day. This includes laparoscopic appendectomy, cholecystectomy, most hernia repairs, and many breast surgeries. More extensive operations like colon surgery, thyroidectomy, or complex procedures may require 1-4 days in the hospital. Emergency surgeries often require longer stays. Your surgeon will estimate your expected hospital stay based on your procedure and health status. Factors like your pain control, ability to eat, and support at home influence discharge timing.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards