General Surgery - Dr Shaheeda Sonday

Dr Shaheeda Sonday – General and Breast Surgeon in Cape Town

Dr Sonday is a general surgeon practising at Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital in Cape Town. With more than 20 years of experience and expertise she provides her patients outstanding service in their back to health journeys. Read what Dr Sonday’s patients say about her service here . Dr Sonday has a special interest in breast oncology and for many years she assisted at the Groote Schuur Breast Clinic. In private practice since 2011, she has established her medical practice at Vincent Pallotti Hospital and Rondebosch Medical Centre. If you need a consult, contact our practice to book your appointment here .

What Does a General Surgeon Do?

A general surgeon, despite the name, is a surgical specialist who has specialized knowledge of the entire surgical process, from the initial evaluation through preparation, procedure, and post-operative management. The word “general” should not be confused with a lack of specific training. It is more appropriate to think of the general surgeon as a specialist in commonly performed procedures. Similar to other medical professionals, surgeons are responsible for examining patients, diagnosing, and recommending the best course of action.

Why Should you See a General Surgeon?

Patients see a general surgeon in a wide variety of circumstances. Here are a few of the most common.

Your Doctor Recommends Surgery

If your doctor believes that non-surgical treatments won’t suffice, you may get a referral to a general surgeon. You may need to visit a surgeon when other treatments haven’t worked.

You’re Having a Medical Emergency

Because general surgeons have such broad knowledge, they perform a variety of emergency procedures. You may see a general surgeon if you have appendicitis, a hernia, gallstones, or even a gunshot wound.

You Choose an Elective Procedure

An elective surgery is any procedure that you and your doctor schedule in advance. Examples include gallbladder removal and hemorrhoidectomies.

General surgeons perform many of these procedures.

What to Expect with a General Surgeon

When you visit with a general surgeon, they’ll evaluate you to make sure surgery is the right option for you. They’ll explain the procedure and answer your questions about the procedure. The goal is to help you feel less anxious and making sure your individual needs are met.

Your surgeon will tell you how to prepare for the operation, including:

Whether you need any tests

If you need to take or stop taking any medications

If you have to stop eating or drinking before the procedure

Your surgeon will also explain what to expect during your recovery. If your surgery requires a hospital stay, they should tell you how long you can expect to be in the hospital and what you will need once you go home.