Is it Normal for the Doctor to Not Be Present at the Pre Op Appointment?

Hi Mrs. 510. From the answers below you see that there is a variety of ways that the pre-operative appointment is performed. I believe that the surgeon should be present to answer any outstanding questions and to review any medical issues. Time management is the most difficult part of my practice, but I believe that I exist because of my patients. So even though the nurse can do the majority of the exchange of information, it is still the surgeon's responsibility to perform the history and physical and be sure that the communication lines are maintained. I confirm sizes with the patient and do not delegate that task as that is one of the most common areas of re-operation in many practices. 

I often make myself available for questions at the pre op visit, but often the surgeon's schedule doesn't allow it.  If I know this will be the case, I will let the patient know this ahead of time.  But it is not uncommon for the doctor to leave that part to the nurse.  It sounds like you are comfortable with the surgeon and they spent plenty of time with you at the consult.  If you wish to meet with the surgeon one more time before surgery, call the office and let them know.  I'm sure they an arrange it for you.

The preoperative workup is often times the formality particularly if the surgeon spent a good deal of time with you at the original consultation. He may delegate completion of the paperwork to his nurse. However, if you want to talk to him again make an appointment.