We understand how confusing and frightening it can be to get a diagnosis that requires brain surgery. Getting a second opinion is always a good idea — there are many advanced imaging techniques and minimally invasive procedures available today, and any patient would be wise to get a second opinion from another neurosurgeon.
The Second Opinion Program at Weill Cornell Medicine Neurological Surgery can provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing your options and having experts to guide you in making your decision. With the new availability of video visits, patients can schedule an appointment with any one of our top-rated neurosurgeons to get a second opinion. Please call or use our online form to request an appointment. Please specify that your appointment is for a second opinion, so we can be sure all previous images and documents are in place before your appointment.
Our faculty can provide expert second opinions on a wide range of brain conditions, including:
A second opinion from one of our neurosurgeons will:
Confirm your diagnosis, or suggest additional tests. Many tumors and other neurosurgical conditions look alike on initial imaging, and an accurate diagnosis is absolutely critical to creating the best treatment plan. If we have any reason to believe your diagnosis needs confirmation, we may recommend additional advanced imaging or other tests to verify your condition.
Provide information about treatment options. Not every doctor or hospital has access to the most advanced technology or has the specialized training to perform minimally invasive surgery. We may be able to suggest a minimal-access alternative to open surgery that your doctor is not able to provide.
Assess your risk. Different treatment options carry different risks, often depending on the age and general health of the patient, the patient’s medical history, and the family history. Our second opinion report will assess your risk based on your own individual situation.
Make a recommendation. Our written report will recommend a course of treatment that our experts believe is best for you.
If you would like to make an appointment with one of our doctors for a second opinion, please see the Faculty Directory for a direct phone number. or use our request an appointment form.
Getting a second opinion from one of our neurosurgeons will not offend your current doctor – it’s simply a means of empowering and educating yourself about your condition and your options. The ultimate decision is yours to make, but rest assured that our experts are standing by to help you make the right choice.
