What is minimal access surgery?

Surgery done through small cuts using a camera (laparoscope) and fine instruments, instead of one large cut. It is also called laparoscopic or keyhole surgery.

What are the benefits of laparoscopic surgery?

Usually less pain, smaller scars, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to normal activity than open surgery.

Can every operation be done laparoscopically?

No. It depends on the condition, previous operations and your general health. Sometimes a laparoscopic operation has to be converted to open surgery for safety.

How soon can I return to work after gallbladder surgery?

Many people return to desk work within one to two weeks after laparoscopic gallbladder removal. Your surgeon will advise based on your job and recovery.

Can I consult a laparoscopic surgeon online?

Yes. The surgeon reviews your scans and reports over video and tells you whether keyhole surgery is suitable. You will be examined in person before any operation.

Can patients outside India consult?

Yes. Slot times are shown in your local time zone.

Consult Minimal Access Surgeons Online

Online laparoscopic surgeon consultation

Minimal access surgery – laparoscopic or keyhole surgery – is done through small cuts with a camera, so there is usually less pain, a smaller scar and a faster return to work. At VRA Health you can consult a laparoscopic surgeon online to find out whether your operation can be done this way, what it involves and how long recovery takes.

Our laparoscopic surgeons

Our surgeons perform keyhole surgery in general surgery and gynaecology:

Dr. Moin Baig K A – MCh Minimal Access Surgery, AIIMS New Delhi
Dr. Sidda Amrish Ram Reddy – MS General Surgery, Bhaskar Medical College
Dr. Saveetha Rathod – MBBS, MD, MRCOG (UK), PGIMER Chandigarh – laparoscopic gynaecological surgery

For other surgical problems, see all our general surgeons.

Operations commonly done by keyhole surgery

Gallbladder removal for gallstones (laparoscopic cholecystectomy)
Hernia repair – groin, umbilical and incisional hernias
Appendix removal
Hiatus hernia and reflux surgery
Ovarian cysts, fibroids, endometriosis and hysterectomy
Diagnostic laparoscopy for unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain
Weight-loss (bariatric) surgery assessment

What an online consultation can and cannot do

It can: review your scans and reports, tell you whether laparoscopic surgery is suitable for you, explain the operation, risks and recovery, and give a second opinion on surgery you have been advised.

It cannot: examine your abdomen, perform any procedure, or manage a surgical emergency.

How to prepare

Ultrasound, CT or MRI reports (and images if available)
Blood test reports and any previous operation notes
A list of your medicines, especially blood thinners and diabetes medicines
Your questions about time off work, diet and recovery

Second opinions and patients outside India

Many families use VRA Health for a second opinion before a major decision, or to consult a laparoscopic surgeon they trust from abroad. You can share reports, scans and discharge summaries before the call, and the doctor will go through them with you in plain language. Many patients abroad consult before planning surgery in India. Medicines prescribed by a doctor in India may need a prescription from a local doctor before a pharmacy outside India will dispense them.

When to go to a hospital instead

Online consultations are not for emergencies. Go to a hospital at once for severe abdominal pain, pain with fever and vomiting, a hernia that becomes painful and cannot be pushed back, or after surgery for fever, increasing pain, a swollen belly or wound discharge. In India call 108 (ambulance) or go to the nearest hospital; abroad, call your local emergency number.

How booking works

Choose a doctor below and pick a slot. Slot times are shown in your own time zone.
The doctor confirms the request, and you pay securely online. The fee is shown on the doctor's profile before you book; patients outside India see it in their own currency.
Join the video call at the booked time from the VRA Health app or your browser.
Download your digital prescription and advice after the consultation.

You can also book on WhatsApp: send "Hi" and follow the steps.

Online Laparoscopic Surgeon Consultation

Find Minimal Access Surgery Doctors (3 available)