Insights and Updates

Helpful articles and news from Compass Surgical to guide you through your healthcare journey.

Resources for Your Health

Read the latest advice, updates, and expert guidance from Compass Surgical to support you on your care journey.
Compass Surgical resource covering gallstones and gallbladder pain, helping patients understand symptoms, diagnosis, and when to seek surgical care.
What Are Gallstones and What Symptoms Do They Cause?

This article explains what gallstones are, why they form, and the symptoms they can cause. It also helps patients understand when gallbladder pain may need specialist assessment.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide explaining whether gallstones can go away without surgery and available treatment options
Do Gallstones Go Away Without Surgery?
This article explains when gallstones can be safely observed and when surgery may be the best long-term option. It helps patients understand why gallstones usually do not disappear naturally and why treatment decisions should ...
Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide explaining biliary dyskinesia and gallbladder symptoms that occur without gallstones
What Is Biliary Dyskinesia?
This article explains biliary dyskinesia, a condition where gallbladder-type symptoms occur even when no gallstones are seen on ultrasound. It outlines how the condition is assessed and why diagnosis can be more complex. ...
Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide to gallbladder polyps, explaining what they are and when surgery may be recommended for treatment
What About Gallbladder Polyps? Do They Need Surgery?

This article explains what gallbladder polyps are and why most are harmless. It also outlines when monitoring or surgery may be recommended based on size, symptoms and risk factors.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical explanation of laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, outlining the keyhole procedure used to safely remove the gallbladder
What Is Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery?

This article explains keyhole gallbladder removal, also called laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It describes what happens before, during and after the operation, and why keyhole surgery is preferred for most patients.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical overview of gallbladder surgery risks, explaining potential complications, benefits and overall safety of gallbladder removal
What Are the Risks of Gallbladder Surgery?

This article explains the recognised risks and benefits of gallbladder removal. It helps patients understand common side effects, uncommon complications and the safety steps used to reduce risk.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide to recovery after gallbladder surgery covering diet, exercise and returning to normal daily life following gallbladder removal
Recovery After Gallbladder Surgery

This article explains what to expect after gallbladder removal, including pain, diet, activity, driving and return to normal routines. It gives practical guidance on recovery and when to seek medical advice.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical follow-up appointment after gallbladder surgery consultation with surgeon discussing recovery progress and ongoing care
Why Your Follow-Up Appointment Matters After Gallbladder Surgery
This article explains why follow-up after gallbladder surgery is important for recovery, reassurance and long-term care. It covers wound healing, pathology results, symptom review and planning a safe return to normal life. ...
Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide explaining what a hernia is, common hernia symptoms, and when to seek medical advice
What Is a Hernia?

This article explains what a hernia is, why it happens and the common symptoms patients may notice. It also outlines when a hernia should be assessed by a surgeon.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide explaining when hernia surgery may be needed based on symptoms, hernia type, and overall health
When Do I Need Surgery for My Hernia?

This article explains when hernia surgery may be recommended and when observation may be reasonable. It helps patients understand how symptoms, hernia type, lifestyle and overall health influence the decision.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical illustration showing different types of hernia repair procedures and surgical techniques
What Types of Hernia Repair Are Available?

This article explains the main options for hernia repair, including open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches. It helps patients understand how surgeons choose the safest and most appropriate repair for each person.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Surgeon explaining the safety and benefits of hernia mesh used in modern hernia repair procedures | Compass Surgical
Is Hernia Mesh Safe?

This article explains the role of mesh in modern hernia surgery and why it is commonly used. It addresses common concerns about mesh and explains how careful patient selection and technique help reduce risk.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Surgeon explaining the risks, benefits, and safety considerations of hernia repair surgery to a patient | Compass Surgical
What Are the Risks of Hernia Surgery?

This article explains the recognised risks and benefits of hernia repair. It covers common recovery issues, less common complications and how surgeons work to make hernia surgery as safe as possible.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Healthcare professionals guiding a patient through the day of hernia surgery, from pre-operative assessment to discharge home | Compass Surgical
What Happens on the Day of Your Hernia Surgery?

This article explains the patient journey on the day of hernia surgery, from admission and anaesthetic through to recovery and discharge. It helps patients know what to expect and how to prepare.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Recovery journey after hernia surgery showing return to work, fitness, and everyday life | Compass Surgical
Recovery After Hernia Surgery

This article explains recovery after hernia repair, including pain control, wound care, walking, exercise, lifting, driving and return to work. It gives practical guidance on what is normal and when to ask for help.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Patient recovering well after hernia surgery with long-term results and successful return to daily activities | Compass Surgical
Long-term Results After Hernia Surgery

This article explains what patients can expect in the months and years after hernia repair. It covers recurrence risk, ongoing comfort, return to activity and the importance of long-term follow-up where needed.

Published:
17 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Medical diagram showing an abdominal wall hernia where tissue pushes through a muscle weakness, illustrating why a tension-free repair is necessary.
Understanding Mesh for Hernia Repair
An evidence-informed guide for patients and GPs Hernias of the abdominal wall and groin are common. Many people notice pain, a visible lump, or difficulty with work and sport. At Compass Surgical, our goal is to provide hernia...
Published:
6 June 2026
Last reviewed:
15 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical guide explaining common skin lumps and bumps, warning signs, and when to seek medical advice
What Are Common Skin Lumps and Bumps?

This article explains common skin lumps such as cysts, lipomas and other benign lumps. It also outlines warning signs that should prompt medical assessment.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical specialist assessing skin lumps and bumps during a clinical examination
How Are Lumps and Bumps Diagnosed?

This article explains how skin lumps and bumps are assessed through history, examination and, when needed, ultrasound or biopsy. It helps patients understand why accurate diagnosis matters before deciding on treatment.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Compass Surgical consultation discussing whether surgery is needed for a lump or bump
Do I Need Surgery for My Lump or Bump?

This article explains when removal of a lump or bump may be recommended and when observation may be appropriate. It covers symptoms, growth, diagnosis, reassurance and cosmetic or practical concerns.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Surgeon performing a lump and bump removal procedure while guiding the patient through what to expect on the day | Compass Surgical
What Happens During Lump and Bump Removal?

This article explains what to expect during lump and bump removal, including local anaesthetic, the procedure itself and wound closure. It helps patients feel prepared for a minor surgical appointment.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Surgeon explaining the risks, benefits, and safety considerations of lump removal surgery during a patient consultation | Compass Surgical
What Are the Risks of Lump Removal?

This article explains the risks and benefits of minor lump removal surgery. It covers bleeding, infection, scarring, recurrence, wound healing and how careful technique helps reduce complications.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Patient caring for a healing wound after lump removal surgery with guidance on recovery and scar management | Compass Surgical
Recovery After Lump Removal

This article explains recovery after lump removal, including wound care, dressings, exercise, swimming and scar management. It gives practical advice on healing and when to contact the surgical team.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Surgeon explaining pathology results after lump removal and what they mean for diagnosis and next steps | Compass Surgical
What Happens to My Lump After It Is Removed?

This article explains what happens after a lump is removed, including pathology testing and how results are reviewed. It helps patients understand why laboratory analysis is often an important part of safe care.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan
Surgeon discussing long-term outcomes and healing progress following lump or cyst removal surgery | Compass Surgical
Long-Term Results After Lump Removal

This article explains what to expect in the months and years after lump removal. It covers scar maturation, recurrence, ongoing symptoms and when further review may be needed.

Published:
18 June 2026
Last reviewed:
22 June 2026
Author:
Dr Thomas Hanna / Dr Peter Swan

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Let's get you on the path to feeling better.

Don't put your health on hold. Whether it's gallbladder, hernia, or skin lumps and bumps, Mr. Thomas Hanna and Mr. Peter Swan are here to provide expert care and clear answers.

Take the first step towards relief and peace of mind today.

Compass Surgical

Compass Surgical provides trusted surgical care in Auckland, specialising in gallbladder, hernia, and skin lumps and bumps. Led by Mr. Thomas Hanna and Mr. Peter Swan, we’re here to support patients with experience, compassion, and personalised treatment.
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