Frequently asked questions about private gallbladder surgery with Mr Siong‑Seng Liau

Answers to common questions about consultations, treatment, surgery, insurance, and what to expect — helping you prepare for your care journey.

Understanding Mr Liau's practice

What is an HPB surgeon?

An HPB surgeon (Hepato = liver, Pancreato = pancreas, Biliary = gallbladder/bile ducts) is a specialist surgeon who treats problems in the abdominal area involving the gallbladder, bile ducts, liver, and pancreas. These organs are deep within the body and surrounded by delicate structures and blood vessels. HPB surgeons are specially trained to operate safely in this complex region, even in high-risk or advanced cases.
They treat both common conditions like gallstones and more serious ones like liver or pancreatic cancer. HPB surgeons are experts in gallbladder removal surgery.

Appointments and referrals

Can the appointment be virtual?

Yes — virtual appointments are usually for follow-up, but in selected cases where travel is difficult, initial consultations may also be done remotely.

Can I book an appointment without a referral?

Yes — if you are self-funding, you do not need a referral. If you are using private medical insurance, your insurer will usually require a GP referral before approving a consultation or treatment. It is advisable to check with your insurer before booking. See more details about our fees and insurance here.

Where and when can I be seen?

Mr Liau holds regular clinics at Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital and Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital. Appointments are usually available within a week. Please contact us via the Contact page to arrange.

Do I need a referral letter?

Most insurers require a GP referral letter to authorise your consultation, investigations, or treatment. If you are self-funding, a referral is not essential, though generally preferred.

Do you see patients for second opinions?

Yes — Mr Liau regularly sees patients referred for second opinions. For complex cases, please request a double clinic slot when booking so sufficient time is allowed. It will be helpful for you to let us have all previous test results, as well as any previous scan results. This will allow Mr Liau to have a thorough picture of your clinical condition.

Do you see children?

No — Mr Liau does not treat patients under 18 years of age.

Consultations and costs

Do I need private medical insurance to be seen by Mr Liau?

No — many patients choose to self-fund their treatment. Please check with the hospital in advance, as most private hospitals require payment in full before clinic appointment or any intervention such as surgery.

What if I have medical insurance?

Mr Liau is recognised by all major UK insurers including BUPA, AXA PPP, Aviva, WPA, Vitality, Cigna, Simplyhealth, Saga, and other major insurers.

Your insurer will usually need:

A referral from your GP
Pre-authorisation for your consultation
Separate approval for any tests or surgery
It’s your responsibility to confirm your level of cover and pay any excess not covered by your policy.

I don’t have medical insurance — can I self-fund for surgery?

Yes — many people choose to pay for their own care. A quote for surgery can be provided on request and will include the hospital, surgical, and anaesthetic fees. Please contact us if you’d like a quotation.

What to expect at your appointment

How long is my appointment?

Initial clinic appointments are typically 30 minutes. If scans or imaging are needed, timing depends on availability within the hospital’s imaging department. If blood tests are required, this can usually be done at the hospital on the same day.

What to expect in your first appointment?

Mr Liau will speak with you about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. He will explain the likely cause and discuss treatment options. Further investigations may be arranged (e.g., blood tests, ultrasound, MRI or CT scans) — often within 1–2 weeks or even the same day.

After diagnosis, he will outline your treatment options. This might include simple advice or medication, or surgery if needed.

How can I prepare for my first appointment?

Bring the following to help make the most of your visit:

A list of symptoms and how long you have had them
A list of any medical conditions and medications
Previous test results (if available)
A list of questions you would like to ask
A friend or family member, if helpful

Planning for surgery

How is surgery organised?

Once surgery is agreed upon, we will arrange a convenient date. Every procedure has a specific code that hospitals and insurers use. If you’re insured, please obtain an authorisation number from your insurer before proceeding.

If you’re coming in for gallbladder surgery, download our guide on what to expect to help you prepare.

Will I need dressing changes?

Most wounds are closed with surgical glue and covered with a waterproof dressing. Unless stained, the dressing should stay in place for 7–10 days until the wound is dry.

Will I need painkillers?

Yes — you will be given typical post-op pain medication to take home. Some painkillers may cause constipation, so having a laxative available at home is advised.

What follow-up will I need?

Mr Liau will usually see you again for one follow-up appointment, around two weeks after surgery.

Safety and blood clot prevention

Do you protect patients from developing blood clots in their legs and lungs (DVT/PE)?

Yes — patient safety is paramount, and Mr Liau takes all appropriate precautions to prevent blood clots after surgery. These include deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs and pulmonary embolism (PE) in the lungs — together known as venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Even in lower-risk, minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopic cholecystectomy, Mr Liau follows VTE prevention protocols at each hospital he practises in. The approach is always tailored to each patient’s individual risk.

TRUSTED EXPERT SURGICAL CARE, DELIVERED QUICKLY AND RELIABLY

Start your journey with us today

Don’t let gallstones continue to affect your quality of life. With modern, minimally invasive options, treatment is quicker, safer, and easier than ever. Mr Liau understands how worrying it can be to face surgery. That is why he takes a calm, clear, and compassionate approach to every consultation. From first meeting to post-operative care, you will receive expert guidance every step of the way.

STEP 1

Contact us

Use the online contact form or call Mr Liau’s secretary to arrange an in-person or virtual consultation at a time that suits you.

STEP 2

Consultation

Mr Liau will review your symptoms, medical history, and any available scans (ultrasound, MRI, or CT), and provide clear, personalised advice on whether surgery is needed.

STEP 3

Surgery & follow-up

If surgery is recommended, most procedures are done as keyhole (laparoscopic) cholecystectomy. Recovery is usually quick, with most patients going home the same day or after one night. Follow-up care is arranged to support your recovery.