Asking the right questions for a head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney helps you understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery timeline. Key questions include: What is your experience with my specific cancer?, How many of these surgeries do you perform each year?, and What are the risks and success rates?.
Preparing these questions for a head and neck cancer surgeon before your first appointment reduces anxiety and leads to better outcomes.
Your first appointment with a head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney can feel overwhelming. You may hear new medical terms, receive unexpected news, and face decisions that feel impossible to make in one conversation.
But here is the truth: the more prepared you are, the better your outcome.
Walking into that consultation with a written list of questions for a head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney transforms you from a passive patient into an active participant in your own care. You become the CEO of your health journey.
This guide gives you 7 essential questions to ask. Each question is designed to help you understand your diagnosis, evaluate your surgeon’s experience, and plan your recovery with confidence.
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: Do not leave your first appointment without asking all 7 questions. If a surgeon rushes you or avoids answering, consider that a red flag.
Meet Dr. Brett Leavers: Head and Neck Cancer Surgeon in Sydney (FRACS)
Before we dive into the 7 questions, know this: a great surgeon welcomes your questions.
Dr. Brett Leavers is an Australian-trained Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist and head and neck surgeon. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with over 10 years of practice across New South Wales.
Dr. Leavers treats benign and cancerous lumps of the neck, thyroid, salivary glands, skin, mouth, and throat. He operates from two Sydney locations:
- Darlinghurst: St Vincent’s Clinic, Suite 1008, Level 10, 438 Victoria St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
- Kogarah: (second clinic location as listed on his website)
His philosophy is simple: provide patients with clear, accessible information and develop individualized management plans — considering both surgical and non-surgical options.
Learn more about Dr. Brett Leavers: Visit his official website →
Dr. Leavers encourages patients to come prepared with questions. He believes that informed patients make better decisions and experience less anxiety.
Questions for Head and Neck Cancer Surgeon Sydney: The 7 Must-Ask Questions
Now, let’s get to the questions.
Question 1: What Is Your Specific Training and Experience in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery?
Why this matters: Not all surgeons have the same training. A general ENT may treat ear infections and sinus issues. A head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney completes additional fellowship training in surgical oncology.
What to listen for:
- Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
- Additional fellowship in head and neck surgical oncology
- Years of experience (10+ is strong)
- Hospital affiliations (St Vincent’s, RPA, Prince of Wales, Liverpool)
Follow-up question: “Do you perform surgery at a major Sydney hospital with a multidisciplinary cancer team?”
Learn more: Read the complete Head and Neck Cancer Surgeon in Sydney: Symptoms, Surgery and Recovery Guide for detailed information on surgeon credentials.
Question 2: How Many of These Specific Surgeries Do You Perform Each Year?
Why this matters: Volume matters. Studies show that surgeons who perform more than 30–50 complex head and neck cancer surgeries annually have better outcomes, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays.
What to listen for:
- 30–50+ complex cases per year is excellent
- Specific numbers for YOUR type of cancer (thyroid, oral, laryngeal, etc.)
- Transparency and honesty (no vague answers)
Follow-up question: “What are your complication rates compared to national averages?”
Question 3: What Are the Success Rates and Risks for My Specific Cancer?
Why this matters: Every cancer is different. Early-stage laryngeal cancer has a 90%+ five-year survival rate. Advanced hypopharyngeal cancer may be 30–50%. You need honest, personalized information.
What to listen for:
- Clear percentages (not vague promises)
- Discussion of both benefits AND risks
- Acknowledgment of individual variability
Follow-up question: “What does ‘success’ mean for my case — cure, remission, or symptom control?”
⚠️ TRUST SIGNAL: A confident head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney will openly discuss risks. Be wary of anyone who claims “no risks” or “guaranteed success.”
Question 4: What Are My Treatment Options Besides Surgery?
Why this matters: Surgery is not always the first or only option. Depending on your cancer type and stage, you may be eligible for:
- Radiation therapy alone
- Chemotherapy alone
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy
- Active surveillance (watch and wait)
What to listen for:
- A surgeon who discusses ALL options, not just their own specialty
- Referral to medical and radiation oncologists
- Multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach
Follow-up question: “Will my case be discussed at a multidisciplinary team meeting?”
Learn more: Understand the difference between an ENT vs head and neck cancer surgeon to ensure you’re seeing the right specialist.
Question 5: What Does Recovery Look Like for Me?
Why this matters: Recovery from head and neck cancer surgery affects how you eat, speak, swallow, breathe, and look. You need a realistic timeline.
What to listen for:
- Hospital stay length (3–14 days typical)
- Feeding tube requirements (temporary or long-term)
- Speech and swallowing therapy needs
- Time off work (4 weeks for desk jobs, 3–6 months for physical jobs)
- Scar management and physical therapy
Specific questions to add:
- “Will I need a tracheostomy (breathing tube in the neck)?”
- “Will I lose my voice permanently or temporarily?”
- “How will this surgery affect my ability to eat normally?”
Learn more: Read the complete recovering from head and neck cancer surgery guide for Sydney-specific resources and timelines.
Question 6: What Will This Cost Me Out-of-Pocket?
Why this matters: Even with Medicare and private health insurance, head and neck cancer surgery can cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket.
What to ask for:
- Written quote for surgeon fees
- Anaesthetist fees estimate
- Hospital excess and accommodation costs
- Pathology and imaging fees
- Post-operative therapy costs (speech, swallowing, physio)
Follow-up questions:
- “Do you offer payment plans?”
- “Can you provide a Medicare rebate estimate?”
- “Will my private health insurance cover the full hospital stay?”
Learn more: Detailed breakdown of head and neck cancer surgeon cost in Sydney including Medicare, private health, and out-of-pocket estimates.
Question 7: Can I Get a Second Opinion? Will You Support That?
Why this matters: A confident surgeon encourages second opinions. Studies show that second opinions change diagnosis or treatment in 10–30% of cancer cases.
What to listen for:
- An immediate “yes” without defensiveness
- Willingness to share your records and scans
- No pressure to decide immediately
What is a red flag:
- “You don’t need a second opinion”
- “I’m the best in Sydney”
- Rushing you to sign consent forms
Follow-up question: “Can you recommend another head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney for a second opinion?”
Learn more: Why a second opinion for head and neck cancer is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Bonus: What to Bring to Your First Appointment
Being prepared goes beyond questions. Bring these items:
- ✅ Your GP referral letter
- ✅ All imaging reports and CDs (CT, MRI, PET, ultrasound)
- ✅ Biopsy and pathology results
- ✅ A list of all medications and allergies
- ✅ Your Medicare card and private health insurance details
- ✅ A notebook and pen (or your phone to record — ask permission first)
- ✅ A trusted family member or friend (second set of ears)
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: Do not attend your first appointment alone. The information is overwhelming. A second person will remember details you miss.
What to Expect During Your First Consultation
A typical first appointment with a head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney lasts 30–60 minutes and includes:
- Medical history review (smoking, alcohol, HPV status, family history)
- Physical examination (feeling the neck, looking in the mouth and throat with a mirror or flexible scope)
- Review of your scans and biopsy results
- Discussion of diagnosis and stage
- Presentation of treatment options (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or combinations)
- Answering your questions (this is where your 7 questions go)
After the appointment: You will likely receive a written summary and may be asked to schedule additional tests or a second consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (20 FAQs)
1. How do I find a head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney?
Start with your GP for a referral. Major hospitals in Darlinghurst, Kogarah, Camperdown, and Randwick have head and neck surgery units.
2. How long does a first consultation take?
Typically 30–60 minutes. Complex cases may take longer.
3. Should I bring someone with me to my first appointment?
Yes. Always bring a trusted family member or friend.
4. Can I record the consultation?
Ask permission first. Many surgeons allow audio recording but not video.
5. What if I don’t understand something the surgeon says?
Stop them immediately and ask for clarification in plain language. A good surgeon will happily explain.
6. How soon after diagnosis should I see a surgeon?
Within 1–2 weeks. Head and neck cancers can grow quickly.
7. Will I need a second opinion?
Not always, but it is your right. Many patients benefit from one.
8. Does Dr. Brett Leavers offer second opinions?
Yes. He encourages informed decision-making.
9. How much does a first consultation cost in Sydney?
$200–$350, with a Medicare rebate of approximately $75–$100.
10. Can I use telehealth for my first appointment?
Some surgeons offer telehealth for initial discussions, but physical examination is essential for diagnosis.
11. What if the surgeon recommends surgery immediately?
Ask why. Some cancers require urgent surgery (within weeks). Others allow time for second opinions.
12. What questions should I ask about clinical trials?
Ask: “Are there any clinical trials for my cancer type? Would I be eligible?”
13. How do I know if a surgeon is qualified?
Look for FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) and additional fellowship in head and neck oncology.
14. What is a multidisciplinary team (MDT)?
A team of cancer specialists (surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists) who review your case together.
15. Should I see a medical oncologist as well as a surgeon?
Yes. Medical oncologists manage chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
16. What is the difference between cure and remission?
Cure means no evidence of cancer long-term (usually 5+ years). Remission means cancer is controlled but may return.
17. How do I prepare emotionally for a cancer diagnosis?
Seek support from family, friends, cancer support groups, or a psychologist.
18. Will I need to quit smoking before surgery?
Yes. Smoking dramatically increases surgical risks and complications. Ask your surgeon for cessation resources.
19. Can I get a second opinion within the same hospital?
Yes. Many hospitals have multiple head and neck surgeons.
20. What happens after I ask all 7 questions?
You make an informed decision — whether to proceed with that surgeon, seek a second opinion, or explore non-surgical options.
Conclusion: You Are the CEO of Your Health Journey
Asking the right questions for a head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney is not confrontational — it is collaborative. A great surgeon expects your questions and respects your preparation.
Dr. Brett Leavers welcomes informed patients. With over a decade of experience, FRACS certification, and a patient-first philosophy at his Darlinghurst and Kogarah clinics, he encourages you to ask every question on this list.
For patient guides, support groups, and financial assistance programs, the Cancer Council NSW – Head and Neck Cancer page offers free, evidence-based resources for Sydney residents.
Take the next step: Book a consultation with Dr. Brett Leavers, trusted head and neck cancer surgeon in Sydney. Visit his website here →
Your health is your greatest asset. Lead it like a CEO.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Surgery and medical procedures involve risks, benefits, and potential complications. Individual results vary.
You should seek professional medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider for your specific condition. Dr. Brett Leavers is a registered medical practitioner and Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). For more information, visit https://drleavers.com.au/.
Patient testimonials and before-and-after images are not used in this content in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines.