Microdiscectomy in Lahore
The gold-standard surgical procedure for a herniated lumbar disc causing sciatica — microscopic removal of the disc fragment compressing the nerve root.
What is a Microdiscectomy?
A microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the portion of a herniated (slipped) lumbar disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve root, relieving the leg pain (sciatica) and other nerve symptoms it causes. It is the most commonly performed spine surgery worldwide.
The procedure is performed under an operating microscope through a small incision, typically 2-3 cm, using specialised retractors to gently move aside the muscle without significant damage. Only the herniated disc fragment compressing the nerve is removed — the rest of the disc and the joint structures are preserved.
Dr. Waqas Mehdi performs microdiscectomy at MidCity Hospital, Lahore, and — for suitable cases — also offers full endoscopic discectomy, an even less invasive alternative performed through a 7mm incision. He will advise which technique is most appropriate for your specific disc herniation at consultation.
When is Microdiscectomy Needed?
Common Causes of Disc Herniation
How Microdiscectomy Compares
Microdiscectomy (Standard)
Performed under an operating microscope through a 2-3 cm incision. The well-established gold standard with excellent long-term outcomes for sciatica relief — success rates of roughly 90-95% for appropriately selected patients.
Full Endoscopic Discectomy (PELD)
An even less invasive alternative for suitable disc herniations, performed through a single 7mm incision using an endoscope. Typically allows same-day or next-day discharge with less muscle disruption than microdiscectomy.
Conservative Treatment (First Line)
Most disc herniations improve without surgery — physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and activity modification resolve symptoms in the majority of patients within 6-12 weeks. Surgery is offered when this fails or red-flag symptoms appear.
Epidural Steroid Injection
Can provide significant temporary relief and is sometimes tried before surgery, particularly for patients wanting to avoid or delay an operation.
Recovery & Aftercare
Most patients are up and walking the same day or the day after surgery, and are typically discharged within 1-2 days.
Sciatica (leg pain) often improves dramatically within days of surgery, since the nerve compression is relieved immediately.
Light activity is encouraged early; heavy lifting and prolonged bending are generally avoided for around 4-6 weeks while the disc space heals.
Most patients return to desk-based work within 1-2 weeks, and to more physical work within 4-6 weeks, depending on the nature of the job.
A structured walking programme and gradual return to normal activity, guided by follow-up review, gives the best long-term outcome.
Why Choose Dr. Waqas Mehdi?
- FCPS Neurosurgeon with extensive experience in lumbar disc surgery
- Offers both microdiscectomy and full endoscopic discectomy — chooses the least invasive option suited to your specific disc herniation
- Personally reviews your MRI and explains exactly which nerve is affected and why
- Recommends surgery only after conservative treatment has genuinely been given a fair trial, where safe to do so
- Patients from across Pakistan and overseas choose Dr. Waqas for lumbar disc surgery
- Private consultation at MidCity Hospital, Lahore — evenings Mon to Sat
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between microdiscectomy and endoscopic discectomy?
How long does microdiscectomy surgery take?
Will my sciatica come back after microdiscectomy?
How soon can I go back to work after microdiscectomy?
What is the cost of microdiscectomy in Lahore?
Book an Appointment
Consult Dr. Waqas Mehdi at MidCity Hospital, Lahore
0300-8482624042-35407131-6 Ext #282
Microdiscectomy – Available for Patients Across Pakistan
Dr. Waqas Mehdi, one of the best neurosurgeons in Lahore and Pakistan, provides expert microdiscectomy at MidCity Hospital and Mayo Hospital Lahore. Patients regularly travel from across Pakistan to consult him — including from:
Dr. Waqas Mehdi (MBBS, FCPS Neurosurgery) is Asst. Professor at King Edward Medical University (KEMU) and Consultant Neurosurgeon at Mayo Hospital, Lahore. His private OPD at MidCity Hospital, 3-A Main Jail Road, Lahore is open for consultations. Call 0300-8482624 or 042-35407131-6 Ext #282 to book an appointment.
Consult Dr. Waqas Mehdi Today
Pakistan's trusted neurosurgeon for brain tumor surgery, spine surgery, and all complex neurological conditions. Book your appointment at MidCity Hospital, Lahore.