General Surgery Idaho Falls: Hernia, Gallbladder & Colon Care

A general surgeon treats problems across the abdomen, digestive tract, breast, skin, and soft tissue. A specialist usually focuses on one organ or system. General surgeons complete a five-year surgical residency, and many then earn certification from the American Board of Surgery. Dr. Lemon and Dr. Summers are board certified, and both are Fellows of the American College of Surgeons.

Some of the most frequently performed general surgery procedures include cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), appendectomy (appendix removal), hernia repair, colon and digestive surgeries, and minor soft-tissue procedures. At Steele Lake Specialty in Idaho Falls, our surgeons perform these procedures regularly using modern, evidence-based techniques to help patients find relief and restore normal function.

All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk, which may include infection, bleeding, reactions to anesthesia, blood clots, or delayed healing. Individual risk factors, such as age, smoking, diabetes, or other pre-existing conditions, can also affect outcomes. At Steele Lake Specialty, your surgeon will clearly explain the specific risks and benefits of your procedure during your consultation so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Preparation typically includes following your surgeon's instructions on eating and drinking (most patients are asked not to eat or drink after midnight the night before), reviewing your current medications, and arranging for someone to drive you home after your procedure. Your surgeon may also recommend quitting or reducing smoking, eating a balanced diet, and staying well-hydrated in the weeks leading up to surgery. At Steele Lake Specialty, we provide detailed pre-surgical instructions tailored to your specific procedure.

The length of a procedure depends on the type of surgery being performed. Some common procedures, such as an appendectomy, may take about an hour, while others can be shorter or longer depending on complexity. During your consultation at Steele Lake Specialty, your surgeon will give you a clear estimate of how long your specific procedure is expected to take so you can plan accordingly.

The type of anesthesia depends on the procedure and your individual health profile. Options may include local anesthesia (numbing a small area), sedation (light sleep), or general anesthesia (full sleep). Your surgeon and anesthesia team at Steele Lake Specialty will review your medical history and recommend the safest, most comfortable option for your situation.

Recovery time varies based on the type of procedure and whether minimally invasive techniques were used. Many patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery return to daily activities within days to a few weeks, while more complex procedures may require a longer recovery period. At Steele Lake Specialty, we provide personalized aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing and ensure a smooth recovery.

This is one of the most common concerns patients have. The timeline depends on the type of surgery, your overall health, and the physical demands of your job or daily routine. Your surgeon at Steele Lake Specialty will provide specific guidance on activity restrictions (including when you can safely drive, exercise, lift, and return to work) so you have a clear plan for getting back to your life.

Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and specialized instruments (often guided by a camera) to perform the procedure, while open surgery involves a larger incision to directly access the area being treated. Minimally invasive techniques often result in less pain, smaller scars, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery. At Steele Lake Specialty, we use minimally invasive approaches whenever appropriate to give our patients the best possible outcomes.

Not every condition requires surgery. In many cases, your doctor may recommend non-surgical treatments first, such as medication, lifestyle changes, or monitoring. Surgery is typically considered when other treatments have not been effective or when a condition requires more immediate intervention. At Steele Lake Specialty, our surgeons take the time to review your full medical history, discuss all available options, and help you determine the best path forward, whether that includes surgery or not.

Call us at (208) 529-2230. Our office is at 3200 Channing Way, Suite 206A, in Idaho Falls. We're open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday until 2:00 PM. Your primary care provider can refer you, or you can call us yourself. Some insurance plans require a referral, so check yours first.