Why Choose Day Surgery at Pittwater?

Day Surgery vs Hospital Stay: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been told you need surgery, one of the first questions you might ask is: “Will I need to stay overnight in hospital?” At Pittwater Day Surgery, we’re seeing more and more procedures safely performed without the need for an overnight stay — making day surgery a more convenient, efficient option for many patients.

So, what’s the difference between day surgery and a hospital stay? And how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Day Surgery?

Day surgery – also known as same-day surgery or outpatient surgery – allows you to have your procedure and return home on the same day. At Pittwater Day Surgery, we make sure the whole process is smooth and supportive, from the moment you arrive to when you're safely discharged.

Common procedures we perform as day surgery include:

• Cataract surgery

• Hernia repair

• Gastroscopy and colonoscopy

• Arthroscopy (e.g. knee or shoulder)

• Skin lesion removal and other minor procedures

What is a Hospital Stay?

In some cases, surgery requires you to stay overnight or longer in hospital. This is referred to as inpatient surgery. It’s usually recommended when:

• The procedure is complex or lengthy

• You need round-the-clock monitoring

• You have other medical conditions that require closer observation during recovery

Hospital stays are typically performed in larger facilities and involve a longer admission and discharge process.

Key Differences – At a Glance

	Day Surgery (Pittwater)	Hospital Stay
Time in hospital	Same-day discharge	Overnight or longer
Procedure type	Less complex, minimally invasive	More complex, higher-risk
Recovery	At home	In hospital
Anaesthesia	Light sedation or general	General anaesthesia common
Cost	Lower out-of-pocket expenses	Higher due to hospital fees
Infection risk	Lower due to shorter stay	Slightly higher

At Pittwater Day Surgery, we focus on providing high-quality care with a personal touch. Patients often choose day surgery with us because it’s:

• Convenient – You can recover in the comfort of your own home

• Efficient – No unnecessary overnight stays

• Affordable – Less time in hospital means lower costs

• Safe – Reduced exposure to hospital-related infections

Our team ensures you’re well looked after every step of the way, and that you're discharged only when it's safe and appropriate to do so.

When is a Hospital Stay the Better Option?

Day surgery isn’t suitable for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, require a complex procedure, or need post-operative monitoring, your specialist may recommend a hospital stay.

We’ll always discuss your options in detail and recommend the safest approach tailored to your needs.

Still Unsure? Let’s Talk.

If you’re not sure whether your procedure can be done as day surgery, we’re here to help. Your surgeon will go over your options and explain:

• Whether day surgery is suitable for you

• What to expect during and after the procedure

• What support you may need at home during recovery