What does a surgeon do?

A surgeon performs surgical procedures on the digestive system, including the gastrointestinal tract, the hepato-bilio-pancreatic system and endocrine glands. They also operate on conditions of the breast, abdominal wall, hernias and, in some cases, the head and neck, treating both benign and oncological problems.

Why might you be referred to a surgeon?

You are usually referred to a surgeon when a digestive condition, a hernia, a gallbladder or thyroid problem, or a cancer diagnosis requires surgical assessment. The aim is to review the case and propose the best treatment option.

When should you see a surgeon?

It is advisable to see a surgeon when surgery is being considered for bowel incontinence, acid reflux, obesity or hernias, as well as for findings such as liver cysts, gallstones, thyroid nodules or cancers of the digestive tract or breast that may need an operation. Surgery is one of the most common reasons people in the UK see a specialist: the NHS in England carries out more than 4.4 million procedures a year (Royal College of Surgeons of England, 2025), and around 6 in 10 people will need at least one operation in their lifetime (Abbott et al., 2024). With NHS waiting lists still well above pre-pandemic levels (British Medical Association, 2026), booking a consultation early can help. If pain, a lump or a long-standing issue such as a hernia or gallstones is affecting your sleep, work or daily activities, a surgeon can review your case, talk through the options and plan next steps with you.

Why choose a surgeon?

A surgeon has comprehensive surgical training covering the abdomen, breast and endocrine system. They work with both conventional and minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy, which allows faster recovery and smaller scars in many procedures.

How can I book an appointment with a surgeon?

At Top Doctors, you can book a consultation with the best surgeon in just one click. Simply choose the specialist, date and time that best suit you.

Allianz Surgeons in Dorset

Mr Andrew Clarke
General, laparoscopic and colorectal surgeon 5.01 review
Appointment confirmed instantly

Expert in:
Hernia
Haemorrhoid surgery
Piles (haemorrhoids)
Pelvic floor reconstructive surgery
Endoscopy
Bowel surgery
e-Consultation Book
Mr Ismail Mallick
Consultant colorectal and general surgeon 5.05 reviews
Appointment confirmed instantly

Expert in:
Piles (haemorrhoids)
Hernia
Colonoscopy
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Blood in stool (rectal bleeding)
Colorectal cancer
This doctor hasn't published their schedule yet
Book
Mr Luca Bonomo
Surgeon 5.012 reviews
Appointment confirmed instantly

Expert in:
Laparoscopy
Gallstones
Cholecystectomy
Gallbladder surgery
Hernia
Inguinal hernia
Book
The Harbour Hospital - part of Circle Health Group
Surgery4.88 reviews
Harbour Hospital, part of Circle Health Group, is situated close to Poole NHS Hospital and is easily accessible from Poole Town Centre. The hospital offers fast access to highly specialised consultants with a wealth of experience in performing highly complex surgery, as well as the latest technology and equipment. The team aim to deliver exceptional levels of care at every stage of the patient journey – from diagnosis to aftercare. The hospital also has a fully comprehensive physiotherapy department and diagnostic imaging centre including X-ray, Ultrasound, CT and MRI. Services available include: Cancer care centre Orthopaedic surgery Spinal surgery Dermatology ENT surgery Endoscopy General surgery Gynaecology Haematology Oral and maxillofacial surgery Booking an appointment is quick and easy, and patients can usually be seen within 48 hours of initial enquiry. Our friendly and professional team look forward to welcoming you to Harbour Hospital.
Specialised in:
Neck lift
Oral surgery
Ovarian cyst

Specialties
Surgery
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Medical team Book

Surgeons accepting Allianz in Dorset

Mr Andrew Clarke

Mr Ismail Mallick

Mr Luca Bonomo

The Harbour Hospital - part of Circle Health Group

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