@momofjohn, I once received advice from a fellow patient who gave me the tip to "keep asking questions until YOU understand the answer." Sometimes we ask our questions and are given an answer, but we walk away feeling more confused or underinformed.

I find it helps if I repeat back to the doctor what I've understood in my own words. This has several benefits:
1. I have better recall if I repeat something and deeper understanding if I use plain language (my words).
2. The doctor can see where I have gaps in my understanding and can fill in the pieces they were not clear about or that I missed.
3. It avoids having to repeat questions with similar unsatisfactory results.

I simply say, "Let me see if I understand you correctly..."

Can you make an appointment to discuss with the surgeon? Or perhaps there is a nurse specialist who works with the surgeon and can answer questions for you?