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Laparoscopic (Keyhole) General Surgery

Treatment Overview

Traditional open surgery has served patients well for decades, but modern patients deserve better. Advanced laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery represents a paradigm shift achieving the same clinical results through tiny incisions rather than large surgical wounds. The benefits are profound: less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster return to work and life, and significantly lower complication rates.

Mr. Ali Haque is a consultant general and upper GI surgeon with extensive expertise in advanced laparoscopic techniques. His training includes prestigious fellowships at leading tertiary centers, where he mastered complex minimally invasive procedures. Today, he brings this expertise to Berkshire, offering patients access to cutting-edge surgical care previously available only at major academic hospitals.

Whether you need hernia repair, gallbladder surgery, reflux treatment, or management of other abdominal conditions, Mr. Haque evaluates whether keyhole surgery is appropriate for your case. When suitable, laparoscopic approaches provide superior patient outcomes compared to traditional open surgery.

Key Treatments :

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Minimally invasive repair of inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernias with rapid healing and low recurrence rates.

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

Safe, effective removal of gallstones and diseased gallbladders through keyhole incisions, including emergency acute cholecystitis cases.

Laparoscopic Anti-Reflux Surgery

Advanced laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery and hiatal hernia repair for lasting GERD relief without long-term medication.

Minimally Invasive Upper GI Surgery

Specialised expertise in complex upper gastrointestinal conditions using cutting-edge laparoscopic techniques.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy

Upper and lower GI endoscopy for investigation, diagnosis, and minimally invasive treatment of gastrointestinal pathology.

Complex Case Management

Expert surgical solutions for recurrent conditions, revision cases, and patients with multiple comorbidities.

Why Choose Keyhole Surgery with Mr. Ali Haque?

Expertise in Advanced Laparoscopic Techniques

Mr. Haque isn’t a generalist dabbling in keyhole surgery he’s a specialist whose practice is built on advanced minimally invasive techniques. His credentials include FRCS (Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons), postgraduate training in complex laparoscopic procedures, and fellowship experience at world-leading centers including King’s College London. This depth of expertise means precision, superior decision-making, and exceptional surgical outcomes.

What Makes Him a True Laparoscopic Surgeon

Not all surgeons who perform keyhole procedures are experienced laparoscopic specialists. Mr. Haque trained extensively in advanced laparoscopic approaches during prestigious fellowships, giving him the technical mastery and judgment to handle complex cases through minimally invasive means. His approach isn’t to default to open surgery when cases become challenging it’s to apply sophisticated laparoscopic expertise to deliver optimal results.

Smaller Incisions, Superior Outcomes

Laparoscopic surgery uses specialised instruments and magnified visualisation to work through tiny incisions (typically 5-15mm). This minimalist approach means less tissue damage, reduced bleeding, lower infection risk, and faster healing. Patients experience significantly less post-operative pain, go home sooner, and return to normal activities weeks faster than with traditional open surgery.

Personalised Surgical Planning

Mr. Haque believes in tailored medicine. During consultation, he thoroughly evaluates your condition, discusses whether keyhole surgery is suitable, and explains alternatives including open surgery or conservative management when appropriate. You’ll receive honest counsel based on evidence, not pressure toward any particular approach. This collaborative decision-making ensures you understand the plan and feel confident in your treatment.

Multidisciplinary Excellence

Complex cases benefit from coordinated expertise. Mr. Haque collaborates seamlessly with gastroenterologists, radiologists, anaesthetists, and other specialists, ensuring every aspect of your surgical care is optimised. This team approach consistently delivers superior outcomes, particularly for challenging cases requiring specialised input.

Proven Results with Rapid Recovery

Mr. Haque’s evidence-based practice combined with advanced laparoscopic expertise delivers consistently high success rates. Patients enjoy rapid return to normal activities, minimal post-operative complications, and durable long-term results all hallmarks of truly expert minimally invasive surgery.

The Advantages of Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery

Minimal Tissue Trauma. Traditional open surgery requires a large incision that cuts through skin, muscle, and fascia. Laparoscopic surgery works through tiny portals, preserving tissue integrity and reducing surgical stress on your body. This fundamental difference translates to less pain, faster healing, and fewer complications.

Reduced Post-Operative Pain. Smaller incisions mean less tissue damage and consequently less pain during recovery. Many laparoscopic surgery patients require minimal or no strong pain medication, compared to significant pain management needs after open procedures. This faster, more comfortable recovery improves quality of life and speeds return to normalcy.

Shorter Hospital Stays. Many laparoscopic procedures are performed as same-day surgery, with patients discharged home a few hours after recovery. Others require an overnight stay. Compare this to open surgery, where 2-3 days hospitalisation is common. Less time in hospital means reduced infection risk, lower costs, and faster return to home and family.

Faster Return to Work and Activities. Most laparoscopic surgery patients resume light activities within 1-2 weeks and full normal activity within 3-6 weeks. Open surgery typically requires 6-8 weeks or longer before returning to work. For working individuals and active patients, this difference is life-changing.

Lower Complication Rates. Smaller wounds mean reduced infection risk, less bleeding, fewer wound complications, and lower rates of hernia recurrence at surgical sites. Minimally invasive approaches have consistently demonstrated safety superiority over open surgery across multiple studies and patient populations.

Superior Cosmetic Outcomes. The tiny scars from laparoscopic surgery are cosmetically superior to large open surgical incisions, which is particularly important for visible areas like the abdomen.

Equivalent or Better Long-Term Results. The key question: does minimally invasive surgery work as well as open surgery long-term? The evidence is clear yes. For most procedures, laparoscopic techniques achieve equivalent or superior long-term outcomes compared to open approaches, with the added bonus of faster recovery and fewer complications.

How Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Works

Modern laparoscopic surgery combines specialised instruments, magnified high-definition visualisation, and precise surgical technique to accomplish complex procedures through minimal access. During your procedure, Mr. Haque makes 2-4 small incisions (typically 5-15mm each). Through these tiny portals, he inserts specialised instruments and a laparoscope—a camera providing magnified, illuminated visualisation of the surgical field.

This magnified view often provides better visualisation than open surgery, allowing for precise tissue handling, careful dissection, and meticulous repair. The specialised instruments, while smaller than open surgical instruments, are equally effective and often more precise. The entire procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and you wake with minimal post-operative pain and rapid recovery ahead of you.

The technical mastery required to perform advanced laparoscopic procedures is substantial. This is why Mr. Haque’s specialised training and extensive experience are valuable they ensure your procedure is performed by someone with genuine expertise in minimally invasive surgery, not just someone who occasionally performs keyhole procedures.

Conditions Treated with Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery

Hernia Repair. Inguinal hernias (groin), umbilical hernias (belly button), and incisional hernias (at previous surgical sites) can all be repaired laparoscopically with excellent results. The minimally invasive approach is particularly valuable for complex or recurrent hernias.

Gallbladder Disease. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for gallstone disease. Mr. Haque manages both elective cases and emergency acute cholecystitis through minimally invasive techniques, providing safe and effective treatment in all settings.

Reflux Disease and Hiatal Hernia. Laparoscopic laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery and hiatal hernia repair offer lasting relief from GERD for motivated patients. These specialised procedures require advanced laparoscopic expertise—exactly what Mr. Haque provides.

Complex Abdominal Conditions. From adhesion management to complex reconstructive surgery, Mr. Haque’s advanced laparoscopic expertise extends to sophisticated procedures that many surgeons would default to open surgery for.

Diagnostic Investigation. When imaging is inconclusive, diagnostic laparoscopy under general anesthesia provides direct visualisation, allowing accurate diagnosis and often simultaneous treatment.

Is Minimally Invasive Surgery Right for You?

You may benefit from laparoscopic surgery if:

  • You have a condition amenable to minimally invasive treatment (hernia, gallbladder disease, reflux, etc.)
  • You prefer faster recovery and minimal post-operative pain
  • You want to minimise surgical scarring
  • You’re fit enough for general anesthesia
  • You wish to reduce time away from work or normal activities
  • You have concerns about infection or wound complications

 

During your consultation with Mr. Haque, a thorough evaluation will determine if laparoscopic surgery is appropriate for your individual situation. Not every case is suitable for minimally invasive approaches, and Mr. Haque will discuss all options including open surgery or conservative management honestly and without bias. Your safety and optimal outcome always guide the recommendation.

What to Expect: Your Laparoscopic Surgery Journey

Pre-operative Assessment. Mr. Haque will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including detailed discussion of your condition, physical examination, and review of any imaging or test results. You’ll receive clear information about your procedure, realistic expectations for recovery, and answers to all questions.

The Procedure. Under general anesthesia, Mr. Haque makes small incisions and performs your procedure using specialised laparoscopic instruments and magnified visualisation. Most procedures take 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on complexity. You’ll wake with minimal pain and clear post-operative instructions.

Early Recovery. Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Initial soreness and bloating are mild and improve rapidly. You’ll receive clear guidance on activity restrictions, wound care, and when to resume normal diet.

Rapid Return to Normal. Within 1-2 weeks, most patients resume light activities. By 3-6 weeks, full return to work and normal activities is typical. Compare this to 6-8+ weeks recovery from open surgery.

Follow-up Care. Mr. Haque provides thorough post-operative follow-up to ensure optimal healing and address any questions. He remains available should concerns arise.

Treatment Overview

Traditional open surgery has served patients well for decades, but modern patients deserve better. Advanced laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery represents a paradigm shift achieving the same clinical results through tiny incisions rather than large surgical wounds. The benefits are profound: less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster return to work and life, and significantly lower complication rates.

Mr. Ali Haque is a consultant general and upper GI surgeon with extensive expertise in advanced laparoscopic techniques. His training includes prestigious fellowships at leading tertiary centers, where he mastered complex minimally invasive procedures. Today, he brings this expertise to Berkshire, offering patients access to cutting-edge surgical care previously available only at major academic hospitals.

Whether you need hernia repair, gallbladder surgery, reflux treatment, or management of other abdominal conditions, Mr. Haque evaluates whether keyhole surgery is appropriate for your case. When suitable, laparoscopic approaches provide superior patient outcomes compared to traditional open surgery.

Key Treatments :

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Minimally invasive repair of inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernias with rapid healing and low recurrence rates.

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

Safe, effective removal of gallstones and diseased gallbladders through keyhole incisions, including emergency acute cholecystitis cases.

Laparoscopic Anti-Reflux Surgery

Advanced laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery and hiatal hernia repair for lasting GERD relief without long-term medication.

Minimally Invasive Upper GI Surgery

Specialised expertise in complex upper gastrointestinal conditions using cutting-edge laparoscopic techniques.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy

Upper and lower GI endoscopy for investigation, diagnosis, and minimally invasive treatment of gastrointestinal pathology.

Complex Case Management

Expert surgical solutions for recurrent conditions, revision cases, and patients with multiple comorbidities.

Why Choose Keyhole Surgery with Mr. Ali Haque?

Expertise in Advanced Laparoscopic Techniques

Mr. Haque isn’t a generalist dabbling in keyhole surgery he’s a specialist whose practice is built on advanced minimally invasive techniques. His credentials include FRCS (Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons), postgraduate training in complex laparoscopic procedures, and fellowship experience at world-leading centers including King’s College London. This depth of expertise means precision, superior decision-making, and exceptional surgical outcomes.

What Makes Him a True Laparoscopic Surgeon

Not all surgeons who perform keyhole procedures are experienced laparoscopic specialists. Mr. Haque trained extensively in advanced laparoscopic approaches during prestigious fellowships, giving him the technical mastery and judgment to handle complex cases through minimally invasive means. His approach isn’t to default to open surgery when cases become challenging it’s to apply sophisticated laparoscopic expertise to deliver optimal results.

Smaller Incisions, Superior Outcomes

Laparoscopic surgery uses specialised instruments and magnified visualisation to work through tiny incisions (typically 5-15mm). This minimalist approach means less tissue damage, reduced bleeding, lower infection risk, and faster healing. Patients experience significantly less post-operative pain, go home sooner, and return to normal activities weeks faster than with traditional open surgery.

Personalised Surgical Planning

Mr. Haque believes in tailored medicine. During consultation, he thoroughly evaluates your condition, discusses whether keyhole surgery is suitable, and explains alternatives including open surgery or conservative management when appropriate. You’ll receive honest counsel based on evidence, not pressure toward any particular approach. This collaborative decision-making ensures you understand the plan and feel confident in your treatment.

Multidisciplinary Excellence

Complex cases benefit from coordinated expertise. Mr. Haque collaborates seamlessly with gastroenterologists, radiologists, anaesthetists, and other specialists, ensuring every aspect of your surgical care is optimised. This team approach consistently delivers superior outcomes, particularly for challenging cases requiring specialised input.

Proven Results with Rapid Recovery

Mr. Haque’s evidence-based practice combined with advanced laparoscopic expertise delivers consistently high success rates. Patients enjoy rapid return to normal activities, minimal post-operative complications, and durable long-term results all hallmarks of truly expert minimally invasive surgery.

The Advantages of Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery

Minimal Tissue Trauma. Traditional open surgery requires a large incision that cuts through skin, muscle, and fascia. Laparoscopic surgery works through tiny portals, preserving tissue integrity and reducing surgical stress on your body. This fundamental difference translates to less pain, faster healing, and fewer complications.

Reduced Post-Operative Pain. Smaller incisions mean less tissue damage and consequently less pain during recovery. Many laparoscopic surgery patients require minimal or no strong pain medication, compared to significant pain management needs after open procedures. This faster, more comfortable recovery improves quality of life and speeds return to normalcy.

Shorter Hospital Stays. Many laparoscopic procedures are performed as same-day surgery, with patients discharged home a few hours after recovery. Others require an overnight stay. Compare this to open surgery, where 2-3 days hospitalisation is common. Less time in hospital means reduced infection risk, lower costs, and faster return to home and family.

Faster Return to Work and Activities. Most laparoscopic surgery patients resume light activities within 1-2 weeks and full normal activity within 3-6 weeks. Open surgery typically requires 6-8 weeks or longer before returning to work. For working individuals and active patients, this difference is life-changing.

Lower Complication Rates. Smaller wounds mean reduced infection risk, less bleeding, fewer wound complications, and lower rates of hernia recurrence at surgical sites. Minimally invasive approaches have consistently demonstrated safety superiority over open surgery across multiple studies and patient populations.

Superior Cosmetic Outcomes. The tiny scars from laparoscopic surgery are cosmetically superior to large open surgical incisions, which is particularly important for visible areas like the abdomen.

Equivalent or Better Long-Term Results. The key question: does minimally invasive surgery work as well as open surgery long-term? The evidence is clear yes. For most procedures, laparoscopic techniques achieve equivalent or superior long-term outcomes compared to open approaches, with the added bonus of faster recovery and fewer complications.

How Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Works

Modern laparoscopic surgery combines specialised instruments, magnified high-definition visualisation, and precise surgical technique to accomplish complex procedures through minimal access. During your procedure, Mr. Haque makes 2-4 small incisions (typically 5-15mm each). Through these tiny portals, he inserts specialised instruments and a laparoscope—a camera providing magnified, illuminated visualisation of the surgical field.

This magnified view often provides better visualisation than open surgery, allowing for precise tissue handling, careful dissection, and meticulous repair. The specialised instruments, while smaller than open surgical instruments, are equally effective and often more precise. The entire procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and you wake with minimal post-operative pain and rapid recovery ahead of you.

The technical mastery required to perform advanced laparoscopic procedures is substantial. This is why Mr. Haque’s specialised training and extensive experience are valuable they ensure your procedure is performed by someone with genuine expertise in minimally invasive surgery, not just someone who occasionally performs keyhole procedures.

Conditions Treated with Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery

Hernia Repair. Inguinal hernias (groin), umbilical hernias (belly button), and incisional hernias (at previous surgical sites) can all be repaired laparoscopically with excellent results. The minimally invasive approach is particularly valuable for complex or recurrent hernias.

Gallbladder Disease. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for gallstone disease. Mr. Haque manages both elective cases and emergency acute cholecystitis through minimally invasive techniques, providing safe and effective treatment in all settings.

Reflux Disease and Hiatal Hernia. Laparoscopic laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery and hiatal hernia repair offer lasting relief from GERD for motivated patients. These specialised procedures require advanced laparoscopic expertise—exactly what Mr. Haque provides.

Complex Abdominal Conditions. From adhesion management to complex reconstructive surgery, Mr. Haque’s advanced laparoscopic expertise extends to sophisticated procedures that many surgeons would default to open surgery for.

Diagnostic Investigation. When imaging is inconclusive, diagnostic laparoscopy under general anesthesia provides direct visualisation, allowing accurate diagnosis and often simultaneous treatment.

Is Minimally Invasive Surgery Right for You?

You may benefit from laparoscopic surgery if:

  • You have a condition amenable to minimally invasive treatment (hernia, gallbladder disease, reflux, etc.)
  • You prefer faster recovery and minimal post-operative pain
  • You want to minimise surgical scarring
  • You’re fit enough for general anesthesia
  • You wish to reduce time away from work or normal activities
  • You have concerns about infection or wound complications

 

During your consultation with Mr. Haque, a thorough evaluation will determine if laparoscopic surgery is appropriate for your individual situation. Not every case is suitable for minimally invasive approaches, and Mr. Haque will discuss all options including open surgery or conservative management honestly and without bias. Your safety and optimal outcome always guide the recommendation.

What to Expect: Your Laparoscopic Surgery Journey

Pre-operative Assessment. Mr. Haque will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including detailed discussion of your condition, physical examination, and review of any imaging or test results. You’ll receive clear information about your procedure, realistic expectations for recovery, and answers to all questions.

The Procedure. Under general anesthesia, Mr. Haque makes small incisions and performs your procedure using specialised laparoscopic instruments and magnified visualisation. Most procedures take 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on complexity. You’ll wake with minimal pain and clear post-operative instructions.

Early Recovery. Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Initial soreness and bloating are mild and improve rapidly. You’ll receive clear guidance on activity restrictions, wound care, and when to resume normal diet.

Rapid Return to Normal. Within 1-2 weeks, most patients resume light activities. By 3-6 weeks, full return to work and normal activities is typical. Compare this to 6-8+ weeks recovery from open surgery.

Follow-up Care. Mr. Haque provides thorough post-operative follow-up to ensure optimal healing and address any questions. He remains available should concerns arise.

Treatment Overview

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weakness in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While some hernias cause minimal symptoms, others can lead to significant discomfort, complications, or the risk of strangulation—a surgical emergency. Mr Ali Haque provides comprehensive hernia assessment and tailored surgical treatment for patients across Berkshire and surrounding areas.

With advanced fellowship training from leading tertiary centres including Guildford and King’s College London, Mr Haque has developed particular expertise in complex hernia repairs and abdominal wall reconstruction. His approach combines precision, evidence-based techniques, and patient-centred care to achieve optimal outcomes and long-term relief.

Whether you require straightforward hernia repair or management of a recurrent, large, or complicated hernia, Mr Haque offers both minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery and open surgical techniques. His practice emphasises thorough pre-operative discussion, realistic expectations, and collaborative decision-making to ensure every patient receives personalised care suited to their individual circumstances.

Mr Haque’s focus on minimally invasive techniques allows for smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays wherever clinically appropriate. For complex cases, he applies advanced reconstructive methods to restore abdominal wall integrity and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Key Treatments :

Inguinal Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic and open techniques for groin hernias

Umbilical Hernia Repair

Mesh and suture repair for hernias around the navel

Incisional Hernia Repair

Management of hernias developing after previous surgery

Complex Hernia Reconstruction

Advanced techniques for recurrent and challenging cases

Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Restoration of abdominal wall integrity in complex defects

Emergency Hernia Surgery

Urgent management of strangulated or obstructed hernias

Why Choose Mr Ali Haque for Hernia Repair

Mr Ali Haque brings subspecialist expertise, advanced training, and a patient-first philosophy to every hernia repair. His approach is built on the principle that successful outcomes require not just surgical skill, but also careful patient selection, thorough preparation, and individualised treatment planning.

Subspecialist Expertise

Core focus on abdominal wall hernias with advanced fellowship training at tertiary centres in Guildford and King’s College London. Extensive experience in both straightforward and highly complex hernia cases.

Advanced Laparoscopic Techniques

Expertise in minimally invasive keyhole surgery delivering faster recovery, reduced pain, and excellent cosmetic outcomes. Open surgery expertise for cases where it offers clinical advantages.

Complex Case Experience

Specialist management of recurrent hernias, large defects, and cases requiring abdominal wall reconstruction. Trained in advanced mesh techniques and component separation procedures.

Evidence-Based Care

Treatment plans guided by the latest clinical evidence and best practice guidelines from the British Hernia Society and international surgical organisations.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Works closely with radiologists, anaesthetists, and specialist nurses to optimise patient preparation, surgical outcomes, and post-operative recovery.

Patient-Centred Approach

Thorough discussion of treatment options, risks, and realistic expectations. Collaborative decision-making that respects patient preferences and individual circumstances.

 
FAQS

Frequently Ask Questions

How do I book an appointment?

You can either book an consultation via the online booking process, fill in the enquiry form, or give us a call at 0808 115 3600.

The number one benefit of private healthcare for most people is that you’ll experience a shorter waiting time for treatment. We don’t have long waiting lists, and in general you’ll simply get treatment as and when you need it.

As a private patient, you shouldn’t experience long waits between appointments. We can usually offer you an initial consultation within days of you getting in touch, and we’ll book you in for the treatments you need on a date and time that suits you.

You can usually see Mr Haque with or without a GP referral, depending on your insurance or payment arrangement. Many patients self-refer for private consultations, while some insurers may require a referral letter. If you’re unsure, his team can guide you through the process and advise on the best option for your situation.

What happens during the first consultation?

During your first consultation, Mr Haque will take a detailed history of your symptoms, review any previous tests or scans, and discuss your concerns in depth. He will perform a focused examination and explain possible causes of your symptoms in a clear and understandable way. If further investigations are needed—such as scans, blood tests, or endoscopy—these will be arranged. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss potential treatment options.

It is helpful to bring any relevant information you have, including:

  • Previous clinic letters or medical records
  • Results of scans, blood tests, or endoscopy
  • Details of current medications
  • Your GP referral letter (if you have one)
  • A brief summary of your symptoms, including when they started

Bringing these documents ensures Mr Haque can make the most accurate assessment and provide a tailored treatment plan.

BOOK NOW

Take the Next Step Towards Hernia Treatment

Mr Ali Haque makes it easy to book your appointments online. Choose a convenient time and get the
care you need without the wait. Your health is our priority.