How Doctors Reduce Fear and Anxiety About Laparoscopy

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How Doctors Reduce Fear and Anxiety About Laparoscopy
August 1, 2025 by admin

Despite being a much less invasive treatment than open surgery, many patients still get nervous when they first hear of a laparoscopic surgery. This fear is understandable. For someone who doesn’t have any familiarity with the medical world, even a minor operation can feel enormous. At Sugam Hospital, our doctors are aware of this emotional side of care. They do not only treat illness, they also treat concerns.

 

Understanding the Root of Patient Anxiety

Many fears about laparoscopy stem from a place of not knowing. Patients don’t understand what it is, how it is done or what recovery from it looks like! Other patients may worry about the anaesthesia or the potential for pain or some kind of complication even if the percentage of risks are low.

It is completely normal to feel vulnerable. This is where clear and compassionate communication is key.

 

How Doctors Make a Difference

Doctors have a significant impact on reducing patient anxiety. At Sugam Hospital, this starts with giving time. Time to listen and explain and answer questions. 

Doctors guide patients through every step of the procedure. They explain  how laparoscopy works, what the tools look like, how long the procedure will last and what happens before and after the procedure. When patients comprehend the procedure in layman’s terms, their confidence begins to grow. 

Anaesthesia is another source of anxiety. Anaesthetists will  take time to reassure patients of what they will feel (or not) during their surgery. They take time to explain how pain will be managed which adds more reassurance and reduces anxiety as well.

 

Setting Realistic Expectations

Honesty without creating concern is a central component to consideration. Doctors do not guarantee the patient will have no discomfort. They do admittedly explain how small the incisions are, the number of days the hospitals may typically be safe for and recovery generally is faster than an open procedure.

They do mention some other side effects that may include mild bloating or nausea, but then reassure the patients these are generally short-lived and conquerable.

Honesty helps the patients feel educated, instead of misled. 

 

Involving Family in the Process

Fear is frequently lessened when patients do not perceive themselves to be alone. Doctors at Sugam Hospital value the importance of family and guardians in the treatment process. They will explain procedures under the parameters of family, with their patient present. When family members feel reassured, then their patients also feel reassured.

The benefits of sharing this knowledge help to develop emotional capital prior to the procedure.

 

Emotional Support and Counselling

In other cases, the anxiety runs deeper. For these occasions, the doctors and nursing staff are trained to identify people who are very anxious. Patients who need more reassurance are led gently and psychological assistance set up where necessary. 

The smallest actions for example, more time before booking surgery or a nurse simply being able to stay close during the pre-op process can help calm a patient down immensely. 

 

The Role of Follow-Up Care

Post-operative reassurance is equally important. At Sugam, for instance, the doctors stay in contact after surgery, checking in on the patient during recovery, sharing recovery tips and encouraging them to respond with how they are feeling emotionally and physically. 

This kind of continuity of care helps patients feel acknowledged and safe after they are discharged from the hospital. 

In the end, laparoscopy may sound terrifying in theory, but much of that anxiety can disappear with quality medical expertise. With educated explanations, reassurance and positive emotional nudges, the doctor takes proactive approaches to maintain stress through the surgical experience. 

The more information and support a patient receives, the better the experience has the chance to be. So if you are having difficulties wrapping your head around the thought of laparoscopy and want to receive expert guidance and care, that keeps you and your comfort in mind, Sugam Hospital is recognized for being one of the best laparoscopy hospitals in Chennai for a reason  because we really care.