Does going to an Neurosurgery Clinic mean you have to have surgery

[Blessed1982]

I am going to see an specialist next Monday and the clinic I have to go to is Neurosurgery - General Cranial does this automatically mean they are going to suggest surgery

[Carsok]

No it doesn't. They will talk to you and tell you your options. Whether you have surgery is really up to you. I'm 74 and have had my meningioma for years. Try to keep occupied and not worry and think about it constantly. You need to not obsess about it. I know it's hard not to but really there is nothing you can do until you see the doctor and find out what's going on. It's taken me years to realize I can't change what is going to happen so find something you enjoy doing and keep busy.

[Blessed1982 in reply to Carsok]

Thank you for replying. Is it normal to see a neurosurgeon rather then a neurologist on your first visit

[Carsok in reply to Blessed1982]

Yes, it is. If you do in fact have a meningioma then neurologist would just send you to neurosurgeon. And just because you're going to see him does not mean he has to operate. I saw one and he wouldn't operate. So be patient and don't obsess over it. I've had mine for over 14 years or so...and I'm still here.

[Blessed1982 in reply to Carsok]

Do you need to decide on your treatments options the same day or do they give you time to go away and think about it

[Carsok]

You can take the time to decide. Remember it's your body and you can decide what is best for you. My doctor told me not to operate and I didn't. There are many people who have meningiomas. People on here come to get answers or just support but there are so many more who have them and have no problems with them. I knew a women who had one for 40 years and she was 90 and had no problems. Remember you're hearing on here just a few people...all the people who have them and don't come on here and so many more walking around with them and don't even know they have them. Don't know how long I had mine before they found it. Also, whatever happens remember worrying isn't going to make it go away. Read a good book, take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

[Carsok]

You're welcome and let us know what they say after you go. Think positive!!!

[Blessed1982 in reply to Carsok]

I certainly will keep everyone updated

[Paper2021]

I was diagnosed by a Neurologist and referred to a Neurosurgeon. They discuss your tumour and options. I’m not sure surgery would be offered to you unless you had symptoms or it was 3cms or bigger. Mine was 5x5x4 and needed surgery as I had progressive symptoms. They estimated I had it for 15-20 years. Meningioma’s are really slow growing. Lots are undetected unless a scan for something else. I have another tumour that is really small. That will be monitored during regular check ups. Make a list of questions and if possible take someone with you for an extra pair of ears. Try not to worry. If surgery is offered it’s a an option for you to decide. Remember it’s the surgeons day job so you’re in safe hands. Also remember we are all here for you what ever option you are given or decide. 💕

[Paper2021]

hi my second one is so small they sometimes can’t see it so I haven’t been given the measurements. I wasn’t really given an option due to the size and symptoms of the big one. I was told I could wait but my symptoms would get worse. I was also told from diagnosis I only had 6 months to live so it wasn’t really an option to wait. Your surgeon will give you the right options based on size symptoms location and your age. It’s their day job and will have your best interest to keep you well. 💕

[Paper2021]

Please try not to worry until you know more. You’ve got this. 💕

[Blessed1982 in reply to Paper2021]

I am trying not to worry but I am terrified

[Paper2021]

unless you have symptoms or it’s in a dangerous place you are likely to be wait and watch. It’s a scary place and I found it hard to deal with so I totally understand. When are you seeing the surgeon?