Common questions
Answers to the questions the practice is asked most often. If yours is not here, send an enquiry and the practice will reply.
Appointments and the practice
Do I need a referral?
Not to enquire. Some medical aids require a referral from a general practitioner before they pay specialist fees, so check with yours. Patients from abroad usually do not need one.
Which rooms should I book?
Both rooms offer the same consultation. Milpark suits most adult surgery and patients flying in; Mulbarton is closer for families in the south of Johannesburg and has specialised care for children.
I live outside South Africa. Can I be seen?
Yes. Send your scans and doctors’ letters with your enquiry, and the practice will advise you on the likely plan, the length of stay and the fees before you travel.
What should I bring?
Any scans (CT or MRI on a disc or link), hearing tests, letters from other doctors, a list of your medicines, and your medical aid or insurance details.
Is this for emergencies?
No. For bleeding that will not stop, difficulty breathing or a sudden loss of hearing, go to the nearest emergency unit. In South Africa, dial 112 from a mobile phone.
Travelling for treatment
Do I need a visa?
That depends on your passport. Many African countries are visa-exempt for short visits to South Africa. Check with the South African embassy or high commission in your country; the practice can provide a letter confirming your appointment.
Can a family member come with me?
Yes, and it is encouraged. After surgery you should not be alone for the first night out of hospital.
What happens when I go home?
You receive a written report for your own doctor, and you can write to the practice with questions during your recovery.
Treatments
Sinus surgery
Will my nose look different?
No. Sinus surgery is done inside the nose and does not change its shape.
Will I have packing?
Usually only dissolvable packing or none at all. Removable packing is rarely needed.
How soon can I fly after sinus surgery?
Usually after the follow-up visit at about a week. Dr Kana will confirm this for you.
Ear surgery
Will my hearing be better?
Often, but the main aim of some operations is a safe, dry ear. Dr Kana will tell you what to expect for your hearing before you decide.
Can I swim afterwards?
Not until the ear has healed, usually six weeks or more. You will be told when it is safe.
When can I fly?
Usually after the first follow-up. Flying soon after ear surgery needs specific advice, so please ask before booking your return.
Head and neck cancer
How quickly can I be seen?
Please say in your enquiry if you have a lump or a symptom that has lasted more than three weeks. These are given priority.
Can I bring scans from home?
Yes. Scans and biopsy reports from your own country help plan your visit, and may shorten it.
Is a neck lump always cancer?
No. Most are caused by infection or are harmless, but a lump that lasts more than three weeks should be examined.
Snoring and sleep apnoea
Will an operation stop my snoring?
It depends on where the noise comes from. That is why the airway is examined at every level before surgery is suggested.
Do I need a sleep study?
Usually yes, to know whether you have apnoea and how severe it is. Many can be done at home.
Should my partner come to the consultation?
If possible. They often know most about how you sleep.
Sialendoscopy
Will I need my gland removed?
Most people do not. Removal is considered when the scope cannot clear the blockage or the gland keeps getting infected.
Is it done under general anaesthetic?
Usually, although some cases can be done under local anaesthetic.
Can stones come back?
Sometimes. Keeping well hydrated helps prevent them.
Skull base surgery
Is this done with a neurosurgeon?
For some conditions, yes. Dr Kana will tell you who is involved in your care.
How long until I can fly?
Longer than after routine sinus surgery. Your flight home should be planned with Dr Kana.
Children’s ENT
Can I stay with my child?
Yes. A parent can stay until your child is asleep, and be there when they wake.
Do grommets fall out?
Yes, usually after six to eighteen months, as the eardrum heals. This is expected.
Will my child miss much school?
About a week after tonsil surgery, and a day or two after grommets.
Make an enquiry
Tell us what is troubling you and how long it has been going on. The practice replies within two working days.
Book a consultation