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.

Bupa Surgeons in Exeter. Book an appointment

Mr Ian Daniels
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Colorectal cancer
Hernia
Colonoscopy
Piles (haemorrhoids)
Laparoscopy
Rectal surgery
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Mr Saj Wajed
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Acid reflux
Gallstones
Hernia
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Mr Douglas Ferguson
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Breast reconstruction
Breast surgery
Gynaecomastia
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Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital
Surgery4.815 reviews
Nuffield Health Exeter hospital is a leading private hospital, especially renowned for orthopaedic surgery. Located in Exeter city centre, at the Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital patients will receive top private healthcare in a modern, clean setting. What medical services does it specialise in?The team of specialists at Nuffield Health Exeter are highly-experienced in: Orthopaedic hip surgery Orthopaedic knee surgery General surgery Diagnostics Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgery General orthopaedic surgery Orthopaedic hand and wrist surgery Gastroenterology
Specialised in:
Acne
Knee arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy

Specialties
Surgery
Dermatology
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

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Mr Saj Wajed
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Mr Robert Bethune
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Haemorrhoid surgery
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
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Mr William Chambers
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Colon cancer
Colonoscopy
Colorectal cancer
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Ms Patricia Boorman
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Colorectal cancer
Haemorrhoid surgery
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
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Mr David Birchley
Surgeon
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Expert in:
Foam sclerotherapy
Hernia
Varicose veins surgery
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