Robotic-assisted surgery in Los Angeles

What "robotic" surgery actually means, what it can and cannot do and the questions to ask your surgeon.

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What it is

In robotic-assisted surgery the surgeon operates through small incisions while sitting at a console and controlling thin instruments and a 3D camera. The robot does not act on its own; the surgeon controls every movement. It is used for many operations, including weight-loss, hiatal hernia, reflux and hernia procedures.

Who may qualify

Whether a robotic approach is appropriate depends on the operation, your anatomy and prior surgeries, the hospital's equipment and, most of all, the surgeon's training and experience with that specific procedure. For many operations, robotic and standard laparoscopic approaches have similar outcomes.

What recovery can look like

Like other minimally invasive approaches, robotic surgery often means smaller incisions and a shorter hospital stay than open surgery, but recovery time depends on the operation. Ask for the specific plan for your procedure.

Risks to understand

Risks are those of the underlying operation (bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs, anesthesia risks) and sometimes the need to switch to a different approach during surgery. Robotic procedures can cost more and operating time can be longer. Results vary and nothing is guaranteed.

Insurance and questions to ask

Ask the surgeon how many times they have performed your procedure robotically, how often they convert to another approach, and whether the robotic approach changes what your insurance covers or what you would owe.

Informational website. It is not a medical practice, does not name or imply any particular doctor, and does not give medical advice. Using it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Content is general education only; talk to a licensed physician about your own care. Last reviewed: November 2026.