Second Opinion

An independent second opinion on spinal care

If you have been given a diagnosis or offered surgery and want to be certain of the right path, Mr Sujay Dheerendra offers a considered, impartial review of your case.

Svg (4)

Why seek a second opinion?

A spinal diagnosis can be life-changing, and the decisions that follow deserve care and clarity. A second opinion gives you an independent review of your imaging, history and proposed treatment from a consultant spinal surgeon, so you can make an informed choice with confidence. It does not replace your current care team — it complements it, and many patients find it brings reassurance whichever way the advice falls.

When a second opinion can help

Quick Information

Format

In person or video consultation

Duration

45–60 minutes

Written report

Sent after your appointment

Fee

Confirmed at booking

How it works

A clear, four-step process

From first contact to written report, the process is straightforward and led by our secretarial team, so you always know what happens next.

Send your records

Share your imaging, reports and any letters from your current team. Our secretary will guide you through exactly what is needed.

Independent review

Mr Dheerendra reviews your scans and history in detail before you meet, so your appointment time is spent on discussion, not paperwork.

Your consultation

A dedicated appointment, in person or by video, to talk through the findings and your options in plain language.

Written opinion

You receive a clear written summary of the opinion and recommendations to share with your GP or existing consultant.

An honest, thorough assessment — in writing

What you receive

Every second opinion is grounded in your imaging and history, explained without jargon, and documented so you can share it with the people already looking after you.

A clear explanation of your diagnosis

What your scans and symptoms show, what they mean for you, and what remains uncertain — explained in plain language.

A considered view on surgery

Whether an operation is appropriate for your situation, what it would involve, and the realistic benefits and risks to weigh.

Alternatives, including non-surgical care

Where relevant, physiotherapy, injection therapy or watchful waiting are discussed alongside surgical options.

A written report for your GP or consultant

A concise summary of the opinion and recommendations, sent to you and — with your consent — to your existing care team.

Common Questions

Questions patients often ask before a second opinion

If your question is not answered here, our secretarial team is happy to help.

Do I need a referral for a second opinion?

A GP referral isn’t essential for a self-funded second opinion. Some private medical insurers do require one before they’ll cover the cost, so it’s worth checking your policy, or our secretarial team can advise on what applies to you.

Only with your consent. Your written opinion is sent to you first, and if you’d like it shared with your current surgeon, consultant or GP, we’re happy to send it on directly. A second opinion is designed to complement your existing care, not to sidestep it, so keeping your own team informed is usually in your best interest.

Yes. Second opinion appointments can be arranged either in person or by video call, whichever is more convenient for you. Your imaging and records are reviewed in detail beforehand either way, so the appointment itself is used for discussion rather than paperwork.

Mr Dheerendra will explain his reasoning clearly, including where it agrees or disagrees with your existing advice, so you understand the basis for any difference of opinion. You’re never obliged to act on a second opinion; it’s simply additional expert insight to help you decide with more confidence, whichever way it falls.

Your imaging (such as MRI or CT scans), any specialist letters or reports, and details of treatment you’ve already tried. Our secretarial team will guide you through exactly what’s needed once you get in touch, so nothing gets missed.

This varies depending on how quickly records can be gathered from your existing team and on appointment availability.

Yes. Mr Dheerendra sees both paediatric and adult patients as part of his substantive NHS and private practice, including complex spinal deformity such as scoliosis, so second opinions are available for younger patients as well as adults.

Yes, that’s entirely possible if it’s the right option for you. A second opinion doesn’t commit you to anything, but if Mr Dheerendra’s assessment leads you to want him to take over your care, this can be arranged following your appointment.

Ready for an independent view of your spinal care?

Request a second opinion and our team will be in touch to arrange your appointment and gather your records.