A second opinion is a reasonable and welcomed step for any patient facing a major decision about scoliosis or spinal deformity surgery — particularly when the proposed surgery is extensive, when a prior surgery hasn’t gone as expected, or when you simply want additional clarity before moving forward. Dr. Sardar regularly reviews cases for patients seeking a second opinion from across the country and internationally.
Who This Is For
A second opinion may be valuable if you have been told you need scoliosis or spinal deformity surgery, if you’ve had prior spine surgery that hasn’t resolved your symptoms, if you’re considering revision surgery, if you have a Harrington rod or older hardware causing concern, or if you simply want confirmation that the proposed treatment plan is the right one for your specific situation.
What a Second Opinion Involves
- Review of your existing imaging: X-rays, MRI, and CT scans are reviewed directly rather than relying solely on prior reports.
- Review of operative history: For patients who have had prior surgery, operative reports and hardware details are reviewed carefully.
- An independent clinical evaluation: Your symptoms, goals, and overall health are assessed on their own terms, separate from the original recommendation.
- A clear discussion of findings: Whether the second opinion agrees with, modifies, or differs from the original recommendation, you’ll receive a clear explanation of the reasoning either way.
How to Prepare
To make the most of a second opinion consultation, it helps to bring or upload:
- Recent X-rays, MRI, and CT scans (digital copies on disc or via secure upload, when possible)
- Operative reports from any prior spine surgery
- A summary of the treatment plan you’ve already been given, if applicable
- A list of your current symptoms and how they’ve changed over time
Getting Started
Second opinion consultations can often begin with a telemedicine visit to review your imaging and history before deciding whether an in-person evaluation is needed. This is particularly useful for patients traveling from out of state or internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to get a second opinion?
Generally no, though insurance requirements vary. Contact our office to confirm what’s needed for your specific insurance plan.
What if the second opinion disagrees with my current surgeon?
You’ll receive a clear, honest explanation of the reasoning behind any differing recommendation, so you can make an informed decision — the goal is clarity, not simply agreement or disagreement for its own sake.
Is a second opinion useful even for revision or Harrington rod cases?
Yes — these cases often benefit the most from a second opinion given their complexity, since treatment approaches and surgical strategy can vary meaningfully between experienced surgeons.
Can I get a second opinion remotely if I live far from New York?
Yes, telemedicine consultations are available for eligible patients in many states. Dr. Sardar is currently licensed to conduct telemedicine consultations with patients in the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, Pennsylvania, Missouri, California, and Texas. Patients in other states may contact the office to discuss options — requirements vary by state and are updated periodically.
International patients seeking care at Och Spine Hospital at NewYork-Presbyterian can access services through NewYork-Presbyterian Global Services, which provides coordination of international patient care including travel assistance, accommodation guidance, and interpreter services.
Contact NYP Global Services: +1-212-746-9100
Request a Second Opinion
To request a second opinion, call 212-932-5187 or visit the contact page to submit your information and records.
This information is educational and is not a substitute for an individualized medical evaluation.
Reviewed by Dr. Zeeshan Sardar, MD, MSc, F.R.C.S.C — Last reviewed: June 2026.