We have compiled an online directory of hospitals
where female cardiothoracic, orthopedic, and spine surgeons
practice. These specialties may be particularly important for
women seeking to protect their modesty during surgery.
Heart and lung surgeries often involve breast
exposure, while certain hip and spine surgeries may require
exposure of the genital area unless special dignity garments
are used. Female general surgeons who perform procedures such
as gallbladder and appendix removal are more readily available
and are not included in this directory.
Please keep in mind that surgeon availability
can change when doctors leave or relocate. We also
cannot guarantee that the surgeons listed will accommodate your
modesty preferences. Before choosing a surgeon, discuss your
concerns and ask specific questions about how your privacy and
dignity will be protected during surgery.
Dignity garments for surgery:
Patients undergoing hip surgery, cardiac catheterization through
the groin, cardiac bypass surgery, and other procedures involving
the groin area should explore the dignity garments developed
by an orthopedic surgeon at COVR
Medical, which are designed to cover the genital area.
Women undergoing shoulder surgery may also be
able to wear a special bra that covers the breasts throughout
the procedure while providing access to the shoulder.
Read our article, Surgery
and Your Modesty, to learn what steps you can take to help
ensure your modesty wishes are respected. Remember that several
medical professionals may be present during surgery, including
an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist, circulating nurse,
other nurses, and additional staff. Discuss your request for
an all-same-sex medical team with both the hospital and your
surgeon well in advance.
If you find outdated information or would like
us to add a surgeon who is not yet listed, please
This directory is a work in progress, and we
welcome your help in keeping it current.
You can also use our Female
Surgeon Locator to search for female surgeons within a specified
distance.